HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, May 21: The All Manipur Beekeepers’ Association (AMBA) observed World Bee Day 2024 recently, underscoring the theme “Bee Engaged with Youth.”
The event, held at AMBA’s office in Khundrakpam Awang Leikai Mamang Ching, celebrated the vital role of bees in our ecosystem and stressed the importance of involving young people in beekeeping and pollinator conservation.
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Chief guest Maibam Rina Devi, social activist from Khundrakpam, and guests of honour including president Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS), Mayanglambam Khelendro Singh, organic expert and agriculturist Thokchom Biren, Apiary Warrior from New Tusom, Ukhrul District, Worthing Horam, and Secretary of the Rural Area Development Organisation (RADO), Saikhom Premjit, graced the occasion. The programme was presided over by a National Awardee in Beekeeping and Secretary of AMBA, who highlighted the significance of bees and the challenges they face. The event commenced with a welcome address by W. Dinamani, Treasurer of AMBA. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Atom Sunil Singh, Secretary of AMBA, who discussed the history and importance of beekeeping, emphasizing that bees are essential for pollinating one-third of the food we consume and supporting biodiversity and agriculture.
Despite their importance, bees face challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and diseases. The theme for World Bee Day 2024, “Bee Engaged with Youth,” underscores the need to involve young people in beekeeping and conservation efforts to ensure the future of these vital pollinators.
Chief guest Maibam Rina Devi spoke passionately about the need for community support in conservation efforts and the critical role bees play in our ecosystem. President Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS), Mayanglambam Khelendro Singh, highlighted the economic importance of bees, noting that they are vital for the pollination of numerous crops essential for human diets. Thokchom Biren emphasised innovative and sustainable practices in beekeeping, sharing insights on organic farming techniques and habitat restoration projects. Worthing Horam focused on the importance of beekeeping and his passion for nature. Saikhom Premjit stressed the importance of community engagement and education in fostering a culture of conservation and stewardship. Dr. Singh also highlighted the ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which has severely impacted bee farmers, leading to loss of life, displacement, and damage to property, including bee farms. AMBA has been actively working to address these challenges, providing support to affected beekeepers.
