Beekeeping is a very useful complementary business to increase the production of agricultural crops and orchards, for which 50 percent subsidy is available through the Khadi and Village Industries Department. The Madhkendra scheme is being implemented throughout the state through the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board and the District Village Industries Office has appealed to those interested to take advantage of this scheme.
Under this scheme, free training in the honey industry, 50 percent subsidy for purchase of materials and 50 percent self-investment, purchase of honey at government guaranteed price, special hobby training facility and awareness creation on bee protection and conservation are provided. Professional beekeepers, center-operated progressive beekeepers and center-operated organizations are eligible for this scheme.
Individual beekeepers should be literate and above 18 years of age. Preference will be given to those who have their own farm. For a center-operating progressive beekeeper, it is necessary to have passed at least 10th standard, be above 21 years of age and have at least one acre of farm or leased farm in the name of himself or any member of the family. In addition, there should be the capacity and facilities to train people on beekeeping, breeding and honey production. For a center-operating organization, it is necessary to have a registered organization, have a suitable building of at least 1 thousand square feet in the name of the organization or on lease and have the capacity to train people on beekeeping, breeding and honey production.
After the beneficiary selection process, it is mandatory to provide a bond to the board regarding starting a honey business before training, and it is also mandatory to undergo training at a location determined by the board.
For more information, contact the District Village Industries Officer, Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board, Udyog Bhavan, 6th Floor, Civil Lines, Nagpur. Also, contact Madhukshetrik Rahul Vaidya (Md. 7248983109, Tel: 0712-2534942) or Director, Honey Directorate, Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board, Government Bungalow No. 5, M.P.O. Tal. Mahabaleshwar, Dist. Satara, Pin 412806, Tel: 02168-260264.
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