Yojana Magazine August 2023- Detail Summary for UPSC Exam

Yojana Magazine Summary August 2023

Yojana magazine is monthly magazine published by government of India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. In this page we will explore Yojana Magazine Summary for August 2023 edition. It provides a comprehensive analysis of recent government initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth and addressing social inequalities. Below are major insights from August 2023 edition:

1. AZADIKA AMRIT MAHOTSAVA.

Introduction

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a significant initiative by the Government of India, marks the celebration of 75 years of independence. It serves as a tribute to India’s remarkable journey towards freedom and its rich cultural heritage. The program commenced on March 12, 2021, with a 75-week countdown culminating on August 15, 2023. This article explores the key themes and initiatives within Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, aimed at commemorating India’s independence and shaping its future.

Themes of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav

Freedom Struggle: Honoring Unsung Heroes

The first theme of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices of unsung heroes who played pivotal roles in achieving India’s independence. It revisits the historical milestones and freedom movements that led to India’s freedom on August 15, 1947.

Ideas@75: Shaping India’s Future

The second theme, Ideas@75, focuses on programs inspired by the ideas and ideals that have shaped India. It guides the nation as it navigates the 25-year period between India@75 and India@100, emphasizing the importance of continuity and evolution.

Actions@75: Paving the Way Forward

Actions@75 highlights efforts undertaken to position India in the emerging post-COVID world order. It underscores the steps being taken to implement policies and realize commitments that will help India assert its rightful place globally.

Resolve@75: Collective Determination

The fourth theme, Resolve@75, emphasizes the collective resolve and determination required to shape India’s destiny. It encourages individuals, groups, civil society, and governance institutions to play their part in India’s journey towards 2047.

Achievements@75: Celebrating Milestones

Achievements@75 focuses on marking the passage of time and celebrating milestones in India’s 75-year journey as an independent nation. It aims to create a public account of India’s collective achievements.

Initiatives and Campaigns 2.0

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav includes initiatives and campaigns aligned with nine critical themes, known as ‘Panch Pran,’ as announced by the Hon’ble Prime Minister. These campaigns are designed to address key areas of development and progress:

• Women and Children
• Tribal Empowerment
• Water Conservation
• Cultural Pride
• Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)
• Health and Wellness
• Inclusive Development
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat
• Unity

Mera Maati Mera Desh: A Tribute to Sacrifice

Starting from August 9, 2023, Mera Maati Mera Desh is a campaign that pays tribute to the courageous Veers and Veeranganas who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. This campaign involves a range of activities and ceremonies conducted at various levels, from Panchayat/Village to the National level.

At the heart of Mera Maati Mera Desh is the erection of local memorials known as Shilaphalakam. These memorials serve as reminders of the sacrifices made for India’s freedom. At these sites, people take a solemn pledge, committing to the core principles of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, including making India developed and self-reliant by 2047, eliminating colonial mindsets, celebrating India’s heritage, strengthening unity, and fulfilling the duties of a responsible citizen.

Other Significant Initiatives

• Vasudha Vandhan: In this initiative, Panchayats, villages, and urban local bodies aim to replenish Mother Earth by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species and developing ‘Amrit Vatika.’
• Veeron Ka Vandan: Felicitation ceremonies are held to honour freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters, recognizing their invaluable contributions to India’s independence.
• Rashtragaan: National Flag hoisting and the singing of the national anthem take place at various sites to instill a sense of patriotism and unity.
• Amrit Kalash Yatra: Youth volunteers and citizens collect soil from Panchayats, villages, and urban areas to create Mitti Kalash, which symbolizes unity and diversity. This soil is carried to the National Capital, signifying a united India.
• Har Ghar Tiranga: Encouraging every household to hoist the Tiranga (Indian flag) on Independence Day, promoting a sense of pride and patriotism.
• Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD): This initiative involves cultural mapping of 6.5 lakh villages, celebrating India’s diverse cultural heritage. More than 2 lakh villages have already been mapped and uploaded onto the National Cultural Work Place portal.

Conclusion

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is more than just a celebration of India’s 75 years of independence. It’s a collective effort to pay homage to the past, shape the present, and build a brighter future for the nation. Through its diverse themes and initiatives, it embodies the spirit of unity, pride, and progress that defines India’s journey towards its centenary year in 2047. This celebration serves as a reminder that the path to progress lies in cherishing one’s heritage while embracing change and innovation.

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2. Integrated Approach For Holistic Well-Being.

Introduction

In the quest for comprehensive well-being, India is taking a transformative step by integrating traditional medicine and allopathy. This synergistic approach brings together the strengths of both systems to provide holistic care addressing physical, mental, and spiritual needs. This article explores India’s healthcare evolution, emphasizing the pivotal role of integration, along with significant initiatives and accomplishments in the field of healthcare.

Ayushman Bharat: A Healthcare Revolution

Launched in 2018, the Ayushman Bharat initiative has become a cornerstone of India’s healthcare landscape. It consists of Health and Wellness Centres (ABHWCs) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). These components work in harmony to tackle healthcare challenges and reduce the financial burden on patients.

AB-HWCs deliver comprehensive primary healthcare services and wellness activities, focusing on community well-being. On the other hand, AB-PMJAY offers free hospitalization and inpatient services to the economically disadvantaged, extending coverage to 40% of eligible populations across India’s states and union territories.

Digital Transformation: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM)

Recognizing the importance of digitalization in healthcare, India launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This mission aims to establish an integrated digital health infrastructure across the country. At its core is the creation of Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA), which serves as a unique identity to link various healthcare benefits. It simplifies registration in healthcare facilities, streamlining access for patients.

E-health initiatives like eSanjeevani have further reduced the gap in healthcare access, making specialist care more accessible to patients across the nation.

Pandemic Response and Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of healthcare preparedness. India swiftly expanded its testing capacity with over 3,388 labs, including government and private facilities, by 2022. This expansion not only increased testing accessibility but also contributed to lowering diagnostic costs, thanks to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

To bolster healthcare infrastructure and preparedness, the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PMABHIM) focuses on enhancing capacities across all levels of care. It encompasses infrastructure development, surveillance, diagnosis, management, and research.

Human Resources for Health (HRH)

To meet the growing healthcare demands, India has made significant strides in expanding its healthcare workforce. Since 2014, there has been a 67% increase in medical colleges, a 93% increase in undergraduate seats, and a 105% increase in postgraduate seats. Additionally, the establishment of 157 new nursing colleges will add approximately 15,700 nursing graduates annually.

Immunization and Disease Control

India’s commitment to immunization has transformed it into a people’s social movement. Through Mission Indradhanush, the country has expanded immunization services, significantly improving coverage rates from 62% in 2015-16 to 76.4% in 2019-21.

Furthermore, relentless efforts to reduce the burden of communicable diseases have yielded impressive results. Between 2014 and 2021, there was an 85.3% reduction in malarial cases and a decline in Japanese Encephalitis cases from 1661 to 787.

Tuberculosis Elimination and Beyond

India has set ambitious goals, aiming to eliminate Tuberculosis by 2025. Initiatives like Ni-kshay 2.0 and innovative crowd funding models leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) opportunities are driving progress.

Mental Health and Well-being

Mental health is receiving the attention it deserves. The National Mental Health Survey of India revealed a significant treatment gap for various mental health disorders. In response, the government introduced Tele-MANAS, the digital arm of the District Mental Health Programme, offering support through 42 established Tele-MANAS cells.

Government-financed health insurance has witnessed a substantial rise of 167%, significantly reducing out-of-pocket spending on healthcare since FY 2013-14.

Acknowledging Traditional Medicines

Recognizing the value of traditional medicine in managing chronic conditions and promoting overall well-being, the Indian Government has integrated these practices into the mainstream healthcare system.

This integration involves the development of standardized protocols, evidence-based guidelines, and safe and effective traditional medicine formulations. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) plays a crucial role in this integration, collaborating with allopathic institutions, research organizations, and healthcare professionals to create a unified approach to healthcare delivery.

Global Commitment

India’s commitment to holistic healthcare and innovation in healthcare delivery is not just a national endeavour; it is a global vision. India’s G20 Presidency, encapsulated in the theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ reflects the ancient Sanskrit ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the belief that the world is one family. India’s healthcare journey demonstrates its unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of its people and contributing to a healthier world.

Conclusion

The integration of traditional medicine and allopathy, coupled with extensive healthcare reforms and innovations, is propelling India towards a brighter and healthier future. These concerted efforts are not only transforming healthcare within the nation but also showcasing India as a global leader in healthcare solutions.

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3. Indian Economy: Historical Perspective And The Way Forward.

Introduction

After gaining independence, India embarked on an economic path that combined socialist policies with market-oriented principles. This approach, aimed at nation-building and self-sufficiency, brought both benefits and challenges. Over the years, India has witnessed significant economic reforms that have reshaped its economic landscape. This article explores India’s economic evolution from the mixed economic model to the ‘Kartavya Kaal’ growth era, highlighting the key reforms and their impacts.

The Mixed Economic Model

In the aftermath of independence, India adopted a mixed economic model that sought to strike a balance between socialism and market-driven policies. This approach was designed to foster industrialization and self-sufficiency through the establishment of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) and import substitution. While it helped in nation-building, it also gave rise to issues such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, limited competition, and stifled innovations.

Macroeconomic Imbalances and the 1990s Reforms

During the late 1980s and early 1990s, India faced significant macroeconomic imbalances. High combined deficits of central and state governments, elevated inflation, and an unsustainable current account deficit triggered a balance of payments crisis. In response to these challenges, India initiated a series of structural reforms in 1991.

Economic Liberalization and Reforms (1990-2014)

The period between 1990 and 2014 witnessed transformative economic reforms:

• Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG) Reforms: The government dismantled the “license raj,” encouraged foreign direct investment (FDI), and promoted privatization. The rupee achieved full convertibility on the current account and partial convertibility on the capital account.
• New Telecom Policy of 1999: This policy catalyzed the information technology (IT) sector boom in India, which had far-reaching effects on various sectors.
• Department of Disinvestment: Established to expedite the disinvestment and privatization of public sector enterprises.
• Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act: Introduced to address the fiscal deficits of central and state governments.
• Banking Sector Reforms: The SARFAESI Act 2002 and the deregulation of interest rates were introduced to assist banks burdened with bad debts.

These reforms contributed to India’s remarkable economic growth, with an average rate exceeding 8% during the 2003-2008 period, outpacing global growth.

New Age Reforms (Post-2014)

Since 2014, India’s economic policy focus has shifted towards restoring its growth potential by enhancing business conditions and improving physical and digital infrastructure. Key reforms in this phase include:

• Simplifying Regulatory Frameworks: Enactment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) to enhance ease of doing business.
• Tax Reforms: Adoption of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), reduction in corporate and income tax rates, and the abolishment of the retrospective tax, reducing the tax burden on individuals and businesses.
• Infrastructure Development: A substantial increase in capital expenditure, from 2.8% to 3.8% of GDP in 2022-23, has improved infrastructure and connectivity across the country. The National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) was established to fund over 9,000 projects with a total investment of over INR 108 lakh crore.
• Make in India and Production Linked Incentives (PLIs): Initiatives to enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities and attract domestic and foreign investments.
• Public Sector Reforms: A new public sector enterprise policy was implemented to limit government presence to strategic sectors. Decriminalization of minor economic offenses under the Companies Act of 2013 has improved the ease of doing business.
• MSME Sector Support: Initiatives like the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS), revision in the definition of MSMEs, and Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) have enhanced sector resilience.

Conclusion

India’s economic journey has been marked by significant shifts from the mixed economic model of the past to the current ‘Kartavya Kaal’ growth era. A robust financial sector, increased public spending, digitalization reforms, formalization of the economy, financial inclusion, expanded economic opportunities, and substantial investment in research and development will be the driving forces behind India’s economic growth in the future. Balancing economic progress with sustainability and inclusivity remains a challenge, but India’s ongoing reforms aim to strike this delicate balance for a prosperous future.

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4. Vision For Industry.

Introduction

India’s journey to 75 years of independence has been marked by remarkable progress. From a nation that witnessed colonial exploitation, India has transformed into a significant global player in the economic arena. As India embarks on the Kartavya Kaal, it stands at a pivotal juncture, ready to realize its vast potential and emerge as a world leader in the post-Covid New World Order.

Unveiling India’s Manufacturing Potential

A FICCI-McKinsey report outlines India’s ambitious goals for the manufacturing sector:

• High-Income nation by 2047: India aspires to become a high-income nation by 2047, with a per capita income six times its current level, offering 60 crore jobs to its burgeoning workforce.
• Economic Transformation: Realizing this potential would propel India’s economy to approximately Rs 1500 lakh crore ($19 trillion) in real terms by 2047.
• Job Creation: Manufacturing, with the potential to generate 60 million to 70 million jobs by 2030, emerges as the sector with the highest employment potential.
• Productivity Enhancement: India aims to enhance overall manufacturing productivity fivefold by 2030, achieved by tripling labour productivity and doubling capital productivity.
• Digital Adoption: A key objective is to attain 70-80% digital adoption by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
• Automation Drive: India seeks to increase the number of World Economic Forum lighthouses tenfold, fostering the adoption of IoT and automation to boost productivity.

Government’s Strategic Initiatives

The government is strategically focusing on various areas to unlock manufacturing’s full potential:

• New-age Factory of the World: India aims to secure a significant share of global supply chains valued between $800 billion and $1.2 trillion by 2030, leveraging Global Value Chains (GVC) for economic growth and job creation.
• New-age Sectors: India has identified key new-age sectors such as mobile phones, solar PV modules, drones, wearables, and semiconductors, bolstering its status as a manufacturing hub.
• Plug-and-play Cluster Zones: State governments are encouraged to create plug-and-play cluster zones aligned with their manufacturing strengths.

Embracing the Digital Revolution in Manufacturing

Digital transformation is imperative for the future of manufacturing:

• Industry 4.0 Solutions: The Indian manufacturing sector invested substantially in Industry 4.0 solutions, promising improved reliability and value chain resilience.
• Technology Collaboration: Collaboration through technology grants and international joint ventures can secure vital technology expertise, propelling manufacturing into the digital age.
• Smart Manufacturing: The ongoing 5G rollout is expected to be instrumental in achieving ‘smart manufacturing,’ encompassing connected warehouses, logistics, fleet management, and more.
• Skill Development: India must invest in robust skill development programs, collaborating with educational institutions and industry bodies to bridge the skills gap.

Transitioning to Sustainable Manufacturing

The future of manufacturing hinges on sustainability:

• Green Alternatives: Manufacturers must prioritize eco-friendly practices, including bio-based feedstock, sustainable packaging, green building materials, and the ethos of ‘Zero Defect – Zero Effect.’

Strengthening Infrastructure

Efficient infrastructure is a cornerstone of successful manufacturing:

• Infrastructure Initiatives: India is addressing infrastructure inefficiencies through initiatives like the Industrial Corridor Development Programme, PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, and National Logistics Policy.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the public and private sectors, special-purpose vehicles, and expanding smart city coverage are crucial to bolster infrastructure.

Conclusion:

         India’s journey towards India@100 is marked by ongoing reforms that will strengthen the foundation of a world-class industrial sector. The nation aspires to be efficient, productive, sustainable, and export-oriented, ensuring a bright future for its manufacturing prowess.

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5. Leveraging Technology For Quality And Accessible Education.

Introduction

Modern technologies like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Extended Reality (ER), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionizing education, creating enriched learning experiences. The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) echoes this vision, striving for comprehensive reforms in education through technology to establish accessible, equitable, and high-quality education for all.

The Pandemic-Prompted Surge in Online Education

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online education. The availability of online classes, high-speed internet via fibre connectivity, and satellite-based DTH content delivery ensured the delivery of top-notch education to homes during this challenging period.

Challenges in Online Education

While technology brings promise, challenges like accessibility and affordability need to be addressed.

Government-Led Tech Initiatives in Education

The Indian government has spearheaded several initiatives to harness technology for education:

• National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL): Launched in 2005, NPTEL offers high-quality engineering lectures by IIT professors. In 2008, it expanded to include Virtual Labs, providing simulation-based experiments.
• Teacher Training Platforms: Initiatives like Amrita Virtual Interactive E-Learning World (A-VIEW), ‘Train 10,000 Teachers’ (T10kT) by IIT Bombay and IIT Kharagpur, and the AICTE Training And Learning (ATAL) Academy focus on enhancing teaching skills.
• SWAYAM Platform: SWAYAM stands as the world’s largest free e-learning portal, championing accessibility, equity, and quality education across all levels.
• National Internship Portal: This connects students with industries, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), fostering experiential learning.
• National Educational Alliance for Technologies (NEAT): An initiative by AICTE, NEAT bridges the gap between ed-tech companies, academic institutions, and students.
• Anuvadhani: Developed by AICTE, this AI-based translation tool bridges language barriers, offering equal learning opportunities nationwide.
• National Digital Library Project: IIT Kharagpur’s project provides free access to digital books and documents.
• Academic Bank of Credit (ABC): Aligned with NEP 2020, ABC allows students to store academic credits and credentials in Digilocker, offering flexibility and enhancing learning opportunities.

Conclusion

NEP 2020 envisions achieving a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 100% in school education and 50% in higher education. Technology is pivotal in realizing these aspirations, closing gaps, ensuring access, fostering equity, maintaining quality, enhancing affordability, and promoting accountability in the education sector.

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 6. Atal Innovation Mission: Building A Holistic Innovation Ecosystem.

Introduction:

Innovation stands as a beacon of progress in the modern world, driving positive change by addressing significant challenges through novel solutions. For India, this journey towards fostering innovation has been marked by the establishment of various initiatives and policies aimed at propelling the nation towards becoming a global innovation powerhouse. This article delves into India’s innovation landscape, highlighting key initiatives and areas of potential growth while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

The Role of Innovation in Economic Growth:

India’s economic growth is intricately linked to innovation, where Total Factor Productivity (TFP) plays a pivotal role. TFP encompasses innovation, technology growth, and efficiency enhancements, making it a crucial contributor to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). As India aspires to reach the coveted $5 trillion GDP mark by FY 2025, nurturing an innovation ecosystem becomes imperative.

Government-Led Initiatives:

The Indian government has taken proactive steps to promote innovation. The establishment of the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) under the Department of Science and Technology is a testament to the commitment to grassroots technological innovations and traditional knowledge. Additionally, the Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy of 2013 aimed to position India as a global scientific power.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM):

In 2016, the government set up the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog, a think tank. AIM has adopted a comprehensive approach, covering every aspect of innovation, from ideation to deployment. It includes initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL), Atal Incubation Centres (AIC), and Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACIC), each catering to specific innovation needs.

Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL):

ATLs, housed in schools, encourage innovative thinking among students by providing access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies. These labs stimulate problem-solving and innovation, nurturing a culture of creativity from an early age.

Atal Incubation Centres (AIC):

AICs are instrumental in nurturing startups, offering the required infrastructure, mentorship, seed capital, industry partnerships, and other critical support. These centres have been established across various sectors, fostering a diverse range of innovative solutions.

Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC):

To make innovation geographically and linguistically inclusive, ACICs have been set up in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, rural areas, and regions with limited access to innovation infrastructure. These centers aim to tap into untapped potential and promote innovation in underserved regions.

Challenges and Potential:

India’s progress in fostering an innovation ecosystem is evident from improved global rankings and the emergence of over 100 unicorns. However, challenges persist, including the need for deeper penetration of innovation in the country, particularly in the realm of deep tech.

Conclusion:

As India stands at an inflection point in its growth story, nurturing innovation becomes a cornerstone of its journey towards becoming a $5 trillion economy. With sustained efforts, the nation can harness its full potential, addressing challenges and emerging as a global leader in innovation, while fostering equitable growth and societal progress.

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7. Agriculture: A Journey From Shortage To Surplus.

Introduction:

India’s agricultural journey has been nothing short of remarkable, transitioning from a nation grappling with food shortages during independence to becoming a proud food surplus nation today. This transformation, driven by relentless efforts and innovative initiatives, has not only ensured food security but also positioned India as a global agricultural powerhouse. This article chronicles India’s agricultural evolution, highlighting pivotal moments and outlining the way forward.

The Post-Independence Struggle:

At the time of independence, India faced a dire shortage of essential food commodities, with the shadow of the devastating Bengal famine (1943-44) still haunting the nation’s memory. With a meagre food grain production of 50.82 million metric tonnes in 1950-51, the country was forced to seek food aid from developed economies, including the USA, through the PL-480 Scheme.

Tales of Transformation:

• First Five-Year Plan: The inaugural Five-Year Plan (1951-56) prioritized increasing agricultural production to eliminate hunger. Subsequent plans saw a shift towards industrial growth, but the importance of agriculture remained undeniable.
• The Green Revolution: In 1968, India achieved a remarkable leap in wheat production, termed the ‘Green Revolution.’ Today, India stands as the second-largest global wheat producer.
• Self-reliance in Pulses: India’s rapid strides towards self-reliance in pulse production are evident, with significant contributions to global production.
• Record Foodgrain Production: Recent estimates (2022-2023) indicate record foodgrain production of 323.5 million metric tonnes, surpassing previous years.

Spectrum of Revolutions:

• The ‘White Revolution’: The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) launched Operation Flood in the 1970s, making India self-reliant in milk production. India’s milk production growth far outpaces the global average.
• ‘Blue Revolution’: India’s fisheries sector has experienced substantial growth, supported by schemes aimed at increasing production and productivity.
• ‘Silver Revolution’ in Poultry: India now ranks as the third-largest egg producer globally, with exponential growth compared to earlier years.
• Rising Fish Production: India is now the second-largest fish-producing country globally, with an impressive compound growth rate.

Challenges and the Way Forward:

Despite these successes, Indian agriculture faces challenges such as climate change, resource degradation, and the need for higher productivity. To address these issues, the government has introduced several initiatives, including financial support, crop insurance, and institutional credit, focusing on farmers’ income enhancement.

Conclusion:

From a nation that once struggled to feed its people, India has emerged as a global agricultural powerhouse. As the country forges ahead, it is poised to further enhance its agricultural prowess and contribute significantly to global food security.

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8. Sweet Revolution: A Boom In Honey Production.

Introduction:

• Sweet Revolution is a government initiative promoting apiculture, commonly known as beekeeping.
• Beekeeping is a low-investment, highly-skilled enterprise that contributes to socio-economic growth.
• Beekeeping offers nutritional, economic, and ecological security and balance.

Apiculture: Managing Honeybees

• Apiculture involves keeping and managing honeybees for honey and related product production.
• Bees are accommodated in artificial hives, allowing for easy examination and honey extraction.
• Honey is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and has various potential health benefits.

Potential of Beekeeping in India:

• India produces approximately 70,000 metric tonnes of honey annually from four species of honey bees.
• Beekeeping provides sustainable income with low-cost investment, utilizing natural resources.
• Apiculture products like royal jelly, beeswax, and pollen find applications in pharmaceuticals, food, beauty, and more.

National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM):

• The NBHM aims to promote scientific beekeeping and quality honey production.
• Implemented by the National Bee Board, it’s 100% centrally funded.
• Objectives include increasing crop productivity through pollination, boosting honey production, and improving post-harvest management.

Mini Missions Under NBHM:

(a) Mini Mission-I: Focuses on crop productivity improvement through pollination and scientific beekeeping.

(b) Mini Mission-II: Concentrates on post-harvest management, including processing, storage, and marketing.

(c) Mini Mission-III: Emphasizes research and technology generation for various regions and conditions.

India’s Honey Production:

• India exported 74,413 Metric Tonnes of natural honey worth Rs 1,221 crore during 2020-2021.
• Madhu Kranti Portal was launched to ensure honey source transparency.
• Scientific technology adoption ensures quality standards and promotes other beehive products.

Way Forward:

• Organized and tech-driven bee-farming generates employment opportunities.
• Aligns with Sustainable Development Goals, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-Being, and Biodiversity and Vibrant Ecosystems.