National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)

Introduction 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India in 2020 under the AtmaNirbhar Bharat initiative. It aims to promote scientific beekeeping to support the holistic growth of the beekeeping industry across the country. The mission addresses key challenges such as low honey production, lack of scientific bee management, and insufficient infrastructure for post-harvest processing of honey and other beehive products. NBHM seeks to enhance income and employment opportunities for farmers, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs engaged in apiculture.

The scheme supports farmers by providing capacity building, training, and technological inputs to improve beekeeping and pollination, which in turn boosts agricultural productivity. It also focuses on developing infrastructure like Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres, honey testing labs, and bee disease diagnostic labs. Women empowerment and value addition to beekeeping products are among the important goals of the mission. By fostering beekeeping as a sustainable livelihood option, NBHM contributes to agriculture diversification and rural development in India. The mission is implemented through the National Bee Board under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, benefiting a broad target group committed to advancing beekeeping across India. This agriculture scheme plays a vital role in increasing honey production and supporting farmers’ income growth.

Overview of the Scheme

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) is a Central Sector Scheme launched in 2020 by the Government of India under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. It aims to promote scientific beekeeping for the holistic growth of the beekeeping sector and to enhance agricultural productivity through improved pollination. The mission supports income and employment generation for farmers, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs involved in beekeeping.

The scheme is implemented primarily through the National Bee Board (NBB) and supported by state line departments. It receives 100% funding from the Central Government, making it a centrally sponsored mission without state funding share requirements. For example, this enables uniform support across all states regardless of their own budget allocations.

NBHM covers multiple components, including capacity building and training of beekeepers, supply of quality inputs and machinery, establishment of Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres (IBDCs), post-harvest management, marketing, value addition, research and technology generation, and promotion of women’s empowerment in beekeeping. It also supports infrastructure such as honey testing labs and bee disease diagnostic labs.

The mission is ongoing and organized into three mini missions focusing on crop pollination enhancement, post-harvest management, and research & technology, providing a broad coverage to foster beekeeping as a sustainable agriculture activity in India.

Summary of Key Points:

• Launched by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India (Central Sector Scheme)
• Implementing agency: National Bee Board (NBB) and State Departments
• Funding pattern: 100% Central Government funding
• Coverage: Training, inputs, machinery, Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres, post-harvest management, value addition, research, marketing, women empowerment
• Status: Ongoing since 2020 under AtmaNirbhar Bharat initiative
• Target group: Farmers, SHGs, FPOs, entrepreneurs in beekeeping and honey industry

This overview provides a simple yet comprehensive summary to understand the structure and reach of the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM).

Objectives 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) objectives focus on supporting the overall growth and modernization of the beekeeping sector in India. The mission aims to enhance income and job opportunities for both farm and non-farm households by promoting scientific beekeeping and increasing agricultural productivity through better pollination.

Key objectives of NBHM include:

• Promote holistic growth of the beekeeping industry to generate income and employment.
• Improve agriculture and horticulture production by enhancing pollination services.
• Develop infrastructure such as Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres (IBDCs), bee disease diagnostic labs, honey testing labs, and post-harvest processing units.
• Empower women through capacity building and involvement in beekeeping activities.
• Introduce technology-driven solutions, like blockchain and IT tools, to ensure honey product quality and traceability.
• Establish honey corridors in regions with strong potential for honey production.
• Encourage entrepreneurship and support start-ups in the apiculture sector.
• Facilitate trade between beekeepers, traders, processors, and exporters for better market access.
• Diversify beekeeping products beyond honey, including beeswax, royal jelly, bee pollen, propolis, and bee venom.
• Strengthen collective action by promoting self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives.

These objectives reflect the broad goals and purpose of the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) as a comprehensive agriculture scheme designed to support sustainable livelihoods and boost the apiculture sector across India. The mission is structured into three mini missions addressing pollination, post-harvest management, and research and development to achieve these goals effectively.

Key Features / Benefits 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) offers several important features and benefits to promote scientific beekeeping and support stakeholders across India. These benefits aim to increase honey production, improve livelihoods, and enhance agricultural productivity through better pollination.

• 100% Central Government Funding

The mission is fully funded by the central government, providing grants and subsidies to individuals, SHGs, FPOs, and entrepreneurs for beekeeping activities, equipment, and infrastructure.

• Subsidy on Beekeeping Equipment and Inputs

NBHM provides financial assistance to buy modern beekeeping tools, hives, and machinery, helping farmers adopt scientific methods easily.

(Example: A small-scale beekeeper can receive up to 50% subsidy for purchasing bee boxes and protective gear.)

• Support for Infrastructure Development

Funds are allocated for setting up Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres, honey testing labs, bee disease diagnostic labs, and custom hiring centers, strengthening the overall value chain.

• Training and Capacity Building

The scheme offers training programs to improve beekeepers’ skills in modern practices, pest management, and honey harvesting techniques, ensuring better harvests and quality products.

• Women Empowerment

Special focus is given to empowering women beekeepers through support for SHGs and skills training, encouraging their active participation in the beekeeping economy.

• Encouragement for Entrepreneurship and Start-ups

NBHM promotes agri-entrepreneurs and startups in the apiculture sector by facilitating trade between producers, processors, and exporters, enabling new business opportunities.

• Promotion of Value Addition and Quality Control

The mission supports processing, storage, and marketing facilities to add value to honey and other bee products like beeswax and royal jelly, enhancing income potential.

• Special Benefits for Northeast and Himalayan States

Individuals and institutions in these regions receive higher subsidies (up to 90%) recognizing their unique challenges, fostering inclusive growth.

• Use of IT and Blockchain for Traceability

NBHM encourages using technology for honey traceability and online registration to ensure quality assurance and build consumer trust.

• Focus on Environmental Sustainability

By promoting beekeeping, NBHM supports biodiversity conservation, improves pollination for better crop yields, and encourages organic honey production methods.

These features and benefits clearly reflect the practical assistance and comprehensive coverage the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) provides to boost the beekeeping sector, improve farmer incomes, and contribute to sustainable agriculture.

Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility criteria for the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) are clearly defined based on the type of beneficiary to ensure the scheme benefits the right groups engaged in beekeeping activities.

• For Farmers (individuals), anyone actively involved in beekeeping and residing in India can apply regardless of landholding size. They must provide identity proof like Aadhaar and relevant documents such as land records or proof of residence to show eligibility and proper identification.
• Self-Help Groups (SHGs) need to be registered and active, with a linked bank account for financial transactions. This ensures transparency and smooth fund transfers under the scheme.
• Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) must be legally registered under the Producer Companies Act and have active members (usually a minimum of 10-15) engaged in beekeeping activities. They need to be functioning organizations to qualify for support.
• Entrepreneurs, Startups, and MSMEs involved in apiculture should have valid registration such as UDYAM or GST certificates to avail benefits under NBHM, ensuring they are recognized business entities.
• Special categories like women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and residents of Northeast or Himalayan regions receive priority and potentially higher subsidy rates as part of inclusive growth under the mission.
• Not Eligible: Those already receiving similar benefits under other schemes or engaged in non-beekeeping activities are generally excluded to avoid duplication.
• Mandatory documents typically include Aadhaar card, bank passbook, registration certificates (for SHGs, FPOs, entrepreneurs), detailed project reports, and quotations for equipment. These documents help verify applicants and enable smooth processing of assistance.

This clear eligibility framework ensures that the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) supports genuine beneficiaries who can contribute to the growth of scientific beekeeping and associated livelihoods across India.

Application Process

The application process for the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) is designed to be straightforward and accessible. Interested beneficiaries can apply both online and offline through official channels.

• Where to Apply

Applicants must apply online via the National Bee Board’s Madhukranti Portal at madhukranti.in. This portal is the official platform for registration and submitting applications related to NBHM. Alternatively, offline applications can be submitted at the nearest State Agriculture Department office, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), ATMA office, or Block Agriculture Office.

• Registration and Login

New users must register on the Madhukranti Portal by providing basic details such as name, contact, Aadhaar number, and email. Once registered, beneficiaries can log in to access the application form.

• Filling the Application Form

The form includes sections for beneficiary details (identity, address, Aadhaar), land or farm details, and selection of NBHM components or activities for which assistance is sought (e.g., bee boxes, training). Bank account details for direct benefit transfer must also be provided.

• Document Upload

Applicants need to upload key documents, including Aadhaar card, land ownership or lease documents (if applicable), bank passbook copy, registration certificates (for SHGs/FPOs/entrepreneurs), quotations or purchase estimates for equipment, and a project or action plan if required.

• Application Fee

There is generally no fee for applying to NBHM schemes or subsidies.

• Acknowledgment

After submitting the form, an application ID or acknowledgment receipt is generated for tracking the application status.

• Verification and Inspection

The submitted applications undergo verification by state-level officials. A physical field inspection of the applicant’s facility or farm may be conducted to confirm eligibility and requirement.

• Approval and Fund Release

Once approved by the National Bee Board or designated state authority, assistance is usually released through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s bank account. Timelines may vary but are generally communicated on the portal or by implementing agencies.

• Offline Assistance

Applicants can also approach local agriculture offices, KVKs, or nearest ATMA/Block offices for help with form filling, document verification, and status tracking.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Ensure name and Aadhaar details match exactly on all documents to avoid rejection.
• Upload clear, legible copies of all required documents.
• Submit quotations or DPRs as per NBHM format and get official signatures where needed.
• Apply before the deadline and regularly check the application status online.

This clear and well-defined process helps applicants easily apply online for the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), ensuring transparency and timely assistance to support beekeeping entrepreneurship and farm livelihoods.

Challenges or Limitations 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), while beneficial, faces several challenges and limitations that can affect its smooth implementation and impact. Understanding these challenges, along with practical solutions, helps applicants and stakeholders navigate the scheme more effectively.

• Delays in Verification and Approval

Applications may face delays due to thorough verification and field inspections by officials.

What to do: Keep all documents ready and up to date, respond promptly to any queries from officials, and follow up regularly with local implementing agencies.

• Limited Budget and Resource Allocation

Sometimes the budget available may constrain the number of beneficiaries covered or scale of support.

What to do: Apply early and prioritize essential components in the application to improve chances of receiving assistance.

• Seasonal Windows for Beekeeping Activities

Beekeeping relies on seasons for optimal bee activity and honey production, limiting when certain activities or equipment can be used.

What to do: Plan applications and equipment procurement in advance, aligned with local flowering and climate cycles.

• Document Mismatch or Incomplete Submissions

Incorrect or missing documents often lead to application rejection or delays in processing.

What to do: Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness before submission; seek help from local agriculture offices if unsure.

• Challenges in Accessing Quality Inputs and Technology

Some regions may have limited availability of quality bee colonies, equipment, or training facilities.

What to do: Use the NBHM’s Integrated Beekeeping Development Centres for training and seek support from SHGs or FPOs for better input access.

• Pests, Diseases, and Climate Impact on Bees

Bee health can be affected by diseases, predators, pesticide use, and unfavorable weather, which impacts honey production.

What to do: Follow scientific practices promoted by NBHM, attend training sessions for pest management, and use recommended safe areas for bee colonies.

• Market Uncertainty and Price Fluctuations

Beekeepers may face challenges selling honey due to price fluctuations and competition.

What to do: Leverage NBHM’s market linkages and support for value addition to improve product quality and access better markets.

• Awareness and Training Gaps

Some potential beneficiaries lack adequate knowledge about modern beekeeping practices leading to underutilization of scheme benefits.

What to do: Actively participate in training programs organized under NBHM and seek continuous guidance from experts.

This balanced understanding of the common challenges and practical tips for overcoming them can help ensure better outcomes under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), making it more effective and farmer-friendly.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) is designed with strong convergence to other agricultural missions and schemes to maximize benefits for farmers and related groups. It works in coordination with programs like the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), KVIC’s Honey Mission under MSME, and initiatives by ministries of rural development, tribal affairs, and MSME. Such linkages help create a comprehensive support system that enhances beekeeping and honey production value chains.

Combining NBHM with other schemes allows farmers and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) to access broader resources – for example, an FPO can utilize NBHM for beekeeping inputs and scientific training while also benefiting from PM-KISAN for income support and PMFME for micro-enterprise development. This multi-scheme usage strengthens farm livelihoods and market opportunities.

NBHM was launched in 2020 as part of the AtmaNirbhar Bharat package with an initial budget of ₹500 crore over three years (2020-21 to 2022-23). The mission includes three mini missions covering pollination enhancement, post-harvest management, and research & technology development. Future plans focus on sustaining these efforts, tapping into high-value beekeeping products, and expanding infrastructure to boost honey exports and farmer incomes.

In summary, NBHM’s convergence with other schemes, ongoing support through the National Bee Board, and focus on innovation provide a strong foundation for beekeeping growth in India’s agricultural landscape.

Conclusion 

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) plays a vital role in supporting farmers, beekeepers, and entrepreneurs by promoting scientific beekeeping and improving incomes through quality honey and bee products. This agriculture scheme benefits mainly small and marginal farmers, self-help groups, and farmer producer organizations engaged in apiculture. By leveraging the NBHM, beneficiaries can access subsidies, training, and market linkages to build sustainable livelihoods.

To take advantage of these benefits, interested individuals and groups should first check their eligibility on the official Madhukranti Portal (madhukranti.in) or consult their local agriculture office. Preparing essential documents like Aadhaar, bank details, and project plans in advance will help streamline the application process.

It is important to verify the latest scheme details and updates regularly on the National Bee Board website or official helpline numbers to ensure smooth and timely access to assistance under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM). This will help applicants make informed decisions and maximize the impact of beekeeping for their communities.

Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.