On May 20, 2025, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) celebrated World Bee Day 2025 at its Central Office in Vile Parle, Mumbai, under the banner of Sweet Revolution Utsav. Themed “Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all”, the event highlighted the transformative impact of KVIC’s Honey Mission in fostering rural livelihoods and environmental conservation. This article explores the significance of the celebration and its contributions to India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Inaugural Highlights
Celebrating Bees and Beekeepers
The event was inaugurated by KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar, with KVIC CEO Ms. Roop Rashi in attendance. It brought together beekeepers, trainees, scientists, apiculturists, students, and experts from Maharashtra and beyond. Shri Manoj Kumar emphasized the ecological and economic significance of bees, stating that they are the backbone of ecosystems through pollination and a key driver of rural prosperity under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Sweet Revolution.
Achievements of the Honey Mission
Empowering Rural India
The Honey Mission has distributed over 2,29,409 bee boxes and colonies nationwide, enabling the production of approximately 20,000 metric tonnes of honey. This has generated an income of ₹325 crore for beekeepers, with ₹25 crore earned from honey exports in FY 2024-25. The mission has transformed beekeeping into a viable livelihood model, empowering youth, women, and farmers through training, processing plants, and marketing networks.
Role of Central Bee Research & Training Institute
Pioneering Apiculture Excellence
Established in 1962, the Central Bee Research & Training Institute (CBRTI) in Pune has trained over 50,000 beekeepers in modern apiculture techniques. CBRTI’s contributions extend beyond honey production, enhancing agricultural and horticultural productivity through pollination and fostering rural entrepreneurship. Its research and training efforts have been pivotal in scaling up the Honey Mission.
Ecological Importance of Bees
Guardians of Food Security
Scientists at the event highlighted that bees contribute to the pollination of 75% of food crops, underscoring their critical role in global food security. Without bees, nearly 30% of food crops and 90% of wild plant species would face significant threats. The Sweet Revolution Utsav emphasized the need to protect bees to ensure ecological balance and sustainable agriculture.
Cultural and Community Engagement
Inspiring the Next Generation
The celebration featured cultural performances by children, including plays, poems, and essays, adding a creative dimension to the event. Virtual success stories from beekeepers across India showcased the transformative impact of the Honey Mission. The participation of KVIC officials, dignitaries, and beneficiaries made the World Bee Day 2025 a vibrant platform for innovation and community engagement.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | World Bee Day 2025 celebrated as Sweet Revolution Utsav on May 20, 2025, in Mumbai |
| Organizers | Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) |
| Theme | “Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all” |
| Honey Mission | 2,29,409 bee boxes distributed, 20,000 MT honey produced, ₹325 crore earned |
| CBRTI Contribution | Trained 50,000+ beekeepers, enhanced pollination and entrepreneurship |
| Impact | Empowers rural livelihoods, supports ecological balance, advances Atmanirbhar Bharat |