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A sweet venture right at home
Are you contemplating starting a small business that yields reliable returns right from your doorstep? While many are aware of traditional beekeeping, few realise the untapped earning potential that lies beyond selling plain jars of raw honey. Unnikrishnan, a resident of Karukachal in Kottayam district, is demonstrating how backyard apiculture can evolve into a highly profitable enterprise.
By installing beehives across his courtyard and extending them into nearby rubber plantations, Unnikrishnan harvests both Indian hive bee honey and premium stingless bee honey. Step into his front yard and you are instantly greeted by the sweet aroma of nectar, surrounded by carefully chosen bee-attracting flora planted to keep the colonies thriving.
From a single backyard to a farmers' collective
Unnikrishnan's journey began with hands-on support from the Nedumkunnam Panchayat Krishi Bhavan. With continuous guidance and technical training provided by the local Agriculture Officer, his venture quickly gained momentum. His success soon inspired neighbours and nearby residents to explore apiculture, eventually blossoming into a vibrant collective of beekeepers across Nedumkunnam Panchayat.
Unlocking higher profits through value addition
To maximise profits, Unnikrishnan is moving beyond raw honey distribution. He is currently gearing up to launch a range of value-added products, including beeswax soaps, bird's eye chilli-infused honey (kanthari honey), and natural honey lip balms. This diversification ensures a steady, doubled income stream compared to conventional honey harvesting alone.
A call for government support
Despite the immense potential of the sector, local beekeepers feel that successive governments in Kerala have overlooked their contributions. Farmers emphasise that structured state aid, subsidies, and promotional schemes could encourage hundreds of rural enthusiasts to embrace sustainable apiculture as a primary livelihood.
