The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), West Tripura, successfully conducted a seven-day Skill Training for Rural Youth (STRY) on “Entrepreneurship Development through Honey Bee Rearing” from 15th to 22nd July 2024 at its Belbari campus. The program was organized under the 100 Days Action Plan and in celebration of the Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years (1974-2024) of KVKs and ICAR RC for NEH Region.
        This programme Sponsored by MANAGE (National Institute of Agriculture Extension Management) in collaboration with T-SAMETI (Tripura-State Agricultural Management & Extension Training Institute), the training aimed to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among rural youth in honey bee rearing. A total of 15 nos. participants from across the district engaged in this comprehensive program.
        The valedictory ceremony was attended by notable delegates including Mr. Roken Debbarma, Chairman of Belbari Block, who served as the chief guest. In his address, Mr. Debbarma emphasized the economic value of honey bee products. Mr. Tushar Kanti Das, Superintendent of Agriculture, Belbari Agri Sub Division, highlighted the significance of honey bee rearing in enhancing crop production.
        Mr. Kanchan Kanti Das, Lead District Manager of Punjab National Bank, discussed various central schemes supporting honey bee rearing, while Mr. Manoj Bhowmik, Senior Manager of Punjab National Bank, Agartala, spoke on the accessibility of agricultural credit for aspiring beekeepers.
        The training program was led by Dr. Nagaraju M.C., Subject Matter Specialist (Agricultural Entomology), who served as the Course Coordinator, with Dr. Ganesh Das, Senior Scientist-Cum-Head of KVK West Tripura, as the Course Director. Co-Course Coordinators included Dr. Mandira Chakraborti, SMS Agronomy; Shri Debashis Datta, SMS Agricultural Extension; and Dr. Maibam Baby Devi, SMS Home Science. The program also featured Mr. Rabindra Bhowmik, a Master Trainer in beekeeping. At the conclusion of the program, participants received certificates and essential inputs to help them embark on their entrepreneurial journey in beekeeping. The success of this STRY program underscores the commitment of ICAR-KVK West Tripura to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering rural youth.