Scheme for Farmers: Boost your income through beekeeping; the government is offering a subsidy of up to 85%..

Have you ever wondered if a farmer could earn a handsome monthly income from their flourishing fields without purchasing extra land or making a massive financial investment? Farmers often assume that increasing income simply means sowing new crops or using expensive fertilizers and seeds. However, placing a few small boxes along the field boundaries can not only boost crop yields but also generate additional income. We are talking about beekeeping—a venture farmers can start without significant capital. If you live in Haryana, your personal financial contribution would be minimal, as the Haryana government covers up to 85% of the remaining costs.

The Haryana Horticulture Department is making efforts to integrate farmers into the 'Sweet Revolution' alongside traditional farming. To promote beekeeping, the government is not only arranging training but also providing financial assistance to those entering the business. The state government aims to increase the number of beekeepers in the state to 7,750 and raise total honey production to 15,500 metric tonnes by 2030. Under this initiative, direct subsidies ranging from 75% to 85% are being provided for the purchase of bee boxes, colonies, and essential tools.

**Guaranteed Honey Prices**

Farmers often worry about falling market prices, but the Haryana government has provided a concrete solution for this as well. The government has included beekeeping in the *Bhavantar Bharpai Yojana* (Price Difference Compensation Scheme). Under this scheme, the price for honey has been fixed at ₹120 per kilogram. If market prices drop, the government compensates for the difference. For instance, if the price falls to ₹100 per kilogram, the government pays the farmer the ₹20 per kilogram difference from its own funds. The Subsidy Breakdown

The government has significantly reduced the cost of starting this business:
Bee Boxes: The government-fixed cost for a single bee box is ₹2,250. A subsidy of approximately ₹1,700 is provided for this. A farmer can avail of the subsidy for a maximum of 50 boxes.
Bee Colony: The price of an 8-frame bee colony is fixed at ₹2,000. A government grant of ₹1,700 is available for this as well; an individual can claim the grant for up to 50 colonies.
Beekeeping Equipment: Subsidies are also available for the purchase of equipment such as honey extractors, safety kits, and brushes.

How to Apply?
To avail the benefits of this government scheme, farmers can contact the nearest Horticulture Department office in their district or apply online via the department's portal. Required documents for the application include a family identity card, land records, a bank passbook, and a photograph. Following the application and physical verification, the approved subsidy amount is transferred directly to the farmer's bank account.

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