J&K Beekeepers Face Major Losses Due to War, Weather, and Chemicals

Beekeepers and farmers in Jammu and Kashmir are experiencing a significant decline in honeybee populations, attributed to the excessive use of chemical pesticides and erratic weather patterns. The adverse conditions, including heavy rains and temperature fluctuations, disrupt flowering and nectar availability, further stressing the already vulnerable colonies. Additionally, infestations by the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) are causing high mortality rates among bees, with no effective treatment currently available. A recent study detected 15 pesticides in honey samples from migratory apiaries, particularly near intensive apple orchards, highlighting the pesticide burden on honey bees.