Assam's migratory beekeepers are on the move, following the seasonal blooms to ensure a continuous flow of honey. This practice, common across India for decades, is gaining traction in Assam as beekeepers seek to meet the growing demand for honey. These dedicated individuals and their colonies embark on journeys to areas with abundant nectar sources, particularly the vibrant mustard fields that characterize Assam's winter landscape.
The daily life of a migratory beekeeper is demanding. Rising before dawn, they dedicate their days to checking hives, using smoke to gently disperse the bees and carefully collecting honeycombs. This honey is often sold overseas, providing a crucial income for these workers who often leave their families behind for months at a time. Despite the arduous work and the inevitable stings, beekeeping offers a means to make ends meet.
Assam has become an attractive destination for migratory beekeepers due to its extensive mustard cultivation and relatively low competition compared to other regions. Beekeepers from states like Bihar and West Bengal travel to districts such as Barpeta, Bajali, and Morigaon, drawn by the promise of plentiful harvests.
However, this growing industry faces challenges, most notably the increasing impact of climate change. Erratic rainfall, including more powerful monsoons and floods, and rising temperatures are disrupting nectar availability and bee behavior. Ranjeet Kumar, a beekeeper, notes that "If the weather is fine, the production will be fine. If the weather spoils, then there is no production". Extreme weather events, such as the devastating floods and landslides in 2024, which caused widespread crop destruction and displacement, further exacerbate the difficulties faced by beekeepers. Assam is experiencing over 20 more heat-wave days compared to a decade ago, with average maximum and nighttime low temperatures increasing by approximately 2 degrees Celsius. These changes are leading to reduced honey production, impacting the livelihoods of beekeepers.
Most migratory beekeepers in Assam utilize the Western honeybee (Apis mellifera). This species, introduced to India around 1962, is favored for its high honey yield compared to native bee species. However, Apis mellifera requires more nectar and is often fed sugar to sustain them, especially when natural nectar sources are scarce. The increasing reliance on Western honeybees raises concerns about potential competition with local bee species and the impact on small farmers who depend on these indigenous pollinators.
Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to support beekeepers and promote sustainable practices. Some programs encourage farmers to rear local bees, recognizing their importance for small-scale farmers and overall biodiversity. Integrated agricultural systems are also being explored to further support the beekeeping industry. The All India Coordinated Research Project on Honey Bees and Pollinators at Assam Agricultural University has played a significant role in transforming honey production in the region. Their work includes introducing and acclimatizing Apis mellifera to Assam's conditions through careful breeding and colony development. These efforts have significantly increased Assam's honey production, contributing a substantial portion of the Northeast's total output. Furthermore, the project has trained numerous beekeepers, distributed essential equipment, and conducted research on pollination requirements and threats to bee colonies.
Migratory beekeeping in Assam represents a complex interplay of economic opportunity, environmental challenges, and the crucial role of pollinators in agriculture. While climate change and competition pose threats, ongoing research, training programs, and a focus on sustainable practices offer hope for the future of this vital industry.