THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, June 5: Jharkhand has taken a major step towards building a distinct identity in honey production with the launch of ‘Palash Honey’, a new market-linked product developed by the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS).
State Rural Development, Rural Works and Panchayati Raj Minister Deepika Pandey Singh formally launched the Palash Honey market chain at Lupung village in Itki block of Ranchi district. JSLPS Chief Executive Officer Ananya Mittal was present as a special guest.
Three Honey Varieties Launched
In the first phase, JSLPS has introduced three varieties of honey under the Palash brand:
- Mellifera Honey
- Cerana Premium Honey
- Wild Forest Honey
The initiative is being driven by women members associated with the Jharkhand Madhu Aajeevika Farmer Producer Company Limited (FPO).
Women-Led Livelihood Initiative
Addressing the gathering, Deepika Pandey Singh said beekeeping offers a sustainable livelihood opportunity for rural women alongside agriculture.
She said the pure and natural honey produced in Jharkhand’s forests and villages has immense market potential at a time when consumers are increasingly concerned about adulterated honey products.
“Beekeeping, along with agriculture, can become an excellent livelihood alternative for women. It can also help reduce migration from villages by creating income opportunities locally,” she said.
The minister added that participating women are being provided training and support, including two beehive boxes each, to encourage scientific honey production.
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Plans to Expand to 9,000 Women
JSLPS CEO Ananya Mittal said the enthusiasm shown by women engaged in beekeeping has been encouraging.
He said the women have acquired substantial technical knowledge about beekeeping and honey production and are successfully managing the activity.
Mittal said JSLPS plans to connect 9,000 women with beekeeping activities in the coming years and expand into value-added honey products.
Production Underway in Four Districts
Currently, women self-help group members are producing Palash Honey in 10 blocks across Ranchi, Khunti, Simdega and Latehar districts after receiving specialised training.
Between April 29 and May 31, the Jharkhand Madhu Aajeevika Farmer Producer Company Limited produced one metric tonne of honey using 500 beehives.
Officials said the project focuses on scientific beekeeping practices, quality control and training to ensure production standards.
₹13 Crore Business Target
The Jharkhand Madhu Aajeevika Farmer Producer Company Limited has set an ambitious business turnover target of ₹13 crore for the financial year 2026-27.
Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen rural livelihoods, promote women’s entrepreneurship and position Jharkhand as an emerging hub for quality honey production.
