A Report on Beekeeping Practices in Cachar, Barak Valley Zone of Assam, India

Abstract

Beekeeping has potential to supplement rural livelihoods while supporting crop pollination and ecological functions. The present study investigated the status, opportunities and challenges of beekeeping as a livelihood activity in Cachar District, Assam, with a specific focus on honey production, marketing practices and farmers’ awareness of beekeeping. The study adopted a mixed-method approach, combining field visits, household surveys, direct interactions with beekeepers, focus group discussions and observational assessments across selected locations. The field visits provided first-hand insights into colony management practices, floral resource availability, seasonal constraints and the socio-economic relevance of beekeeping in the region. The findings revealed that beekeeping serves as a supplementary but increasingly important income source for rural households, owing to the district’s favourable climate and diverse floral resources. However, several constraints significantly affected productivity and sustainability. The study identified seasonal flooding, pest and predator infestations, limited floral availability during the rainy season and a high incidence of fungal and bacterial infections as major biological and environmental challenges faced by beekeepers. Management-related issues, such as inadequate technical knowledge of handling bee boxes, appliances and apiaries, limited awareness of disease- and pest-control strategies, poor honey storage and inadequate packaging materials, further constrain effective beekeeping. Marketing analysis showed that most beekeepers sell honey directly to consumers because of the absence of organised market spaces, branding or cooperative networks. Despite high demand, limited market access and a lack of awareness of value addition reduce overall profitability.