Kashmir beekeepers face livelihood risks as climate change depletes hives.

Honeybees are seen outside hive entrances in Khonmoh Hills, Srinagar, as they work to maintain colony temperatures during hot weather. The ongoing honey crisis in Kashmir is alarming beekeepers, particularly as the acacia nectar supply dwindles and migratory colonies face stress, which threatens pollination for local apple orchards. This season, erratic rainfall and temperature fluctuations have led to significant declines in honey production, with some beekeepers reporting losses of up to 90% due to adverse weather affecting the acacia bloom. Experts attribute this decline to disrupted flowering, cold spells, pesticide usage, and the challenges of seasonal hive migration.