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India’s honey production has nearly doubled over the past decade, highlighting the growth of apiculture. However, sustaining the “Sweet Revolution” requires protecting bees, which provide critical pollination services to agriculture.

Bees as Agricultural Pollinators

• According to FAO, pollinators contribute to nearly one-third of global crop production and improve yields in 87 of 115 leading food crops.
• Bees are particularly important for oilseeds, fruits and vegetables.
• Beekeeping supports rural livelihoods, employment diversification and agricultural productivity.

India’s Honey Sector

• India is the world’s second-largest honey producer after China.
• Honey production increased from about 76,000 tonnes (2013–14) to around 1.51 lakh tonnes (2025–26).
• Major honey-producing States: Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab, Bihar and Rajasthan.
• Major export markets include the USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Libya.
• About 70% of Indian honey production is exported, with exports valued at around $208 million in 2025–26.
• India accounts for approximately 8.4% of global honey exports.

National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)

• A Central Sector Scheme implemented through the National Bee Board (NBB).
• Focus: promotion of scientific beekeeping, quality honey and other hive products.
• Supports development of the apiculture sector and improvement of beekeeper incomes.

Key Challenges

• Export concentration: Around 76% of India’s honey exports in 2025–26 went to the US, creating vulnerability to tariffs and regulatory changes.
• Low value realisation: Bulk/unbranded exports limit access to premium markets.
• Low domestic consumption: Per-capita honey consumption is only around 37 g/year.
• Bee-health concerns: Indiscriminate pesticide use, especially during flowering, can harm bee populations and pollination.
• Quality infrastructure: Gaps in NMR-based testing, residue testing, certification and traceability restrict access to high-value markets.

Way Forward

• Diversify beyond honey into beeswax, propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen.
• Expand NMR testing laboratories, certification and traceability systems.
• Promote pollinator-friendly agricultural practices and rational pesticide use.
• Treat bee conservation as both an agricultural and environmental priority.