Migratory Routes of Apis mellifera Apiaries from Himachal Pradesh Vis-à-vis Seasonal Floral Availability in North Indian Plains: An Approach for Sustainable Beekeeping

Abstract

Aims: To explore the migration routes, floral resources, honey yield, and the economic and ecological challenges faced by beekeepers, along with the market orientation for bee products and economic viability on the basis of apiary size. Study Design: A survey of 40 beekeepers was conducted to evaluate floral calendar, migratory patterns and associated challenges. Place and Duration of Study: Survey was carried out across various agro-climatic zones of Himachal Pradesh during 2023 and 2024. Methodology: We surveyed 40 randomly selected migratory beekeepers across Himachal Pradesh. Data on migratory routes, floral resources and seasonal transitions were collected through farm visits and structured questionnaires. A floral calendar was developed using field observations and weather data. On the basis of apiary size, we classified beekeepers into four groups and profitability was calculated for each group, highlighting variations in income potential with the scale of operation. Results: Data showed that the majority of beekeepers in Himachal Pradesh practice migratory beekeeping, traveling through Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and the plains of Uttar Pradesh to take advantage of region-specific nectar flows. A well-planned floral calendar and flexible migration reduce feed requirements, especially during long dearth periods, and help combat threats like predatory wasps. Based on the varied apiary sizes, average honey production ranges from 245.5 kg to 3,871.42 kg. Similarly, the average wax, pollen, and propolis production ranges from 7.4 kg to 293.57 kg, 0.4 kg to 36.14 kg, and 0.07 kg to 18.28 kg, respectively. The study highlights climate-resilient beekeeping and floral phenology-based management for sustainable apiculture. It advocates evidence-based, often cooperative migratory routes and suggests measures to enhance resilience and profitability of beekeeping in mountainous areas. Conclusion: Migratory beekeeping enhances honey yield and profitability through strategic floral phenology-based movements, supporting sustainable and climate resilient apiculture in Himachal Pradesh.