Apiculture: History and Scope

Abstract

Man has been aware of honey bees since ages as reflected from depictions and inscriptions made around 10,000 years ago. North America and Egypt were the early starters in Bee-keeping. Discovery on the phenomenon of division of labor, life cycle and rearing techniques in different countries led to the successful domestication. Honey bees gain importance by pollination of flowering plants and it has been estimated that global value of pollination is around 153 billion dollars annually. Considering the economics, an income to the tune of Rs. 3,500.00 - 7,000.00 per hive can be achieved annually. At present India has got 2.0 million bee colonies but has the potential to keep around 120 million bee colonies that can provide employment to 12 million families.