The Department of Zoology, Fazl Ali College, in collaboration with the Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM), Government of Nagaland, successfully conducted a two-day training program on Scientific Beekeeping on March 12 and 13. The program aimed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to promote sustainable apiculture practices.
The inaugural session was led by Imlinungla, Head of the Department of Zoology, who introduced the objectives of the training. Dr I Wati Imchen, Principal of Fazl Ali College, extended a warm welcome, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to fostering research and skill development in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Temjenchuba K Char, in-charge of Mokokchung District for NBHM, addressed the gathering and underscored the growing potential of beekeeping as an economically viable and ecologically beneficial practice. He highlighted the application of scientific tools and equipment in modern apiculture.
Dr Sentiwati Aier, an alumnus of Fazl Ali College and recipient of the District-Level Award for Best Beekeeper 2024, discussed the role of beekeeping in Nagaland, with a special focus on Mokokchung.
Further, Nzanbemo K Lotha, Nodal Officer of NBHM, provided insights into honeybee biology and behavior. He elaborated on the need for scientific intervention in traditional beekeeping practices to enhance productivity and sustainability, emphasizing honeybee conservation, pollination, and the contribution of apiculture to local agriculture.
The session also covered essential aspects of apiary management, including the proper setup and maintenance of beehives, disease control measures, and strategies to improve honey production. The discussions concluded with an engaging interactive session.
Under the supervision of Temjenchuba K Char and Dr Sentiwati Aier, with assistance from Akangneken, an apiarist from Khensa Village, a live demonstration was conducted on transferring a bee colony from a traditional box to a scientific bee box. Participants were also taught how to identify different bee castes and understand their specific roles within the colony. A significant milestone of the program was the installation of the first batch of scientific bee boxes along with a bee colony from NBHM in the college campus, marking a step toward establishing a long-term apiary project at the institution.
On the second day, participants engaged in hands-on training at Dr Sentiwati Aier’s apiary in Yisemyong, Mokokchung. The two-day program concluded on a high note, with experts commending the enthusiasm and active participation of the attendees. The event has set the foundation for future collaborations and capacity-building initiatives aimed at promoting scientific beekeeping as a viable livelihood option while contributing to ecological sustainability.
The training program was attended by students enrolled in the Skill Enhancement Course (Apiculture), core Zoology students, and faculty and staff of the department.