Overview

Chandigarh University announced the launch of its Apiculturist – Wild Bee (Non‑Timber Forest Products) training programme, a skill‑development initiative funded by a ₹12 lakh grant from the Punjab State Council for Science & Technology (PSCST) under the Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP). The project, administered by the Department of Biosciences, University Institute of Biotechnology (UIBT), began in January 2026 and targets rural and forest‑fringe communities in four north‑Indian states – Punjab, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.

Programme Content

The curriculum, designed and delivered by Prof (Dr) L.K. Attri, Head of the Department of Biosciences, together with Assistant Professor (Dr) Sangeeta, combines scientific theory, practical demonstrations and field‑based learning. Participants acquire competencies across the entire bee‑product value chain, including:

  • Identification, sustainable collection, handling and storage of wild bee products;
  • Processing techniques for honey, bee pollen, propolis and bee‑wax;
  • Value‑addition, packaging, branding and marketing aligned with quality standards;
  • Business planning, enterprise management and market‑linkage strategies.

Outcomes and Impact

Since inception, several trainees have secured placements with organisations operating in the apiculture sector, applying the skills gained during the programme. Other participants have initiated their own ventures encompassing beekeeping, honey production, processing of value‑added bee products (pollen, propolis, wax) and direct marketing. The programme therefore creates green livelihood opportunities, diversifies income sources for farming families, and contributes to local economic development.

Conservation and Sustainability Focus

A core objective is to align livelihood generation with ecological conservation. Trainees are instructed in responsible collection and processing methods that protect wild bee populations and forest ecosystems, thereby supporting pollinator health essential for broader agricultural and horticultural productivity.

Institutional Profile

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+‑graded and QS World‑ranked autonomous institution approved by the UGC, located near Chandigarh, Punjab. It offers more than 109 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce and other disciplines, and has been recognised as The University with Best Placements by the World Career Review Council (WCRC).

Disclosure

The press release was distributed through PRNewswire under an arrangement with the university; PTI disclaims editorial responsibility.