Inspection of Bee Hives at Klew Village in Ri-Bhoi District
Diagnostic visit was conducted by Dr Sandip Patra, Scientist (Agril. Entomology), Division of Crop Protection, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya to inspect the bee hives of Mr. Lurshai Songthiang’s apiary at Klew village, Ri-Bhoi district on 4th October, 2018. Under Trial Sub Plan, the scientific beekeeping is being promoted by Division of Crop Protection among the farmers of Meghalaya. Mr. Songthiang became an expert of scientific bee rearing and emerged as a successful beekeeper in his village under the technical guidance of Division of Crop Protection. During the visit, it was observed that some of the bee hives were attacked by wax moth and hive beetle. It was also observed that most of the infestation found only in weak as well as unmanaged colonies. No infestation was found in strong and managed colonies. As per the severity of infestation, it was recommended that the apiary needs to maintain strong and healthy colonies to overcome these problems. Old combs should not be left lying around the apiary and dead colonies should be removed immediately.
