Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar introduced ‘Amul Honey,' a product of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd, on Tuesday. The product was launched in collaboration with the ‘National Bee Board (NBB).'
Addressing the launch event, Tomar underlined the relevance of the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission in boosting the income of small farmers, which is being implemented across the country with a budgetary allocation of 500 crores for doubling the income of farmers/beekeepers through beekeeping.
He stated that the country has 86% small farmers. "It is important to connect these small farmers with other dimensions of agriculture, such as beekeeping, in order to enhance their revenue," he added.
The minister also stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his wish for a sweet revolution on Gujarati soil, and that by introducing Amul Honey, India has begun the journey towards realising the PM's goal.
He also stated that honey quality is a critical concern in the country, which is why 5 large scale Regional Honey Testing Labs and 100 Mini Honey Testing Labs are being established around the country.
"It should be our continual endeavour to ensure that the quality of our honey products should meet the worldwide standards, since there are many export opportunities in this sector," he added.
The minister promised the country's beekeepers/farmers that the government will provide all necessary support for the promotion and growth of beekeeping in the country.
Tomar, who praised the work of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), stated that Amul has not only set a milestone in the path of the White Revolution, but it has also developed in the milk processing industry and established itself as a worldwide brand.
Apart from that, Amul gives employment opportunities to marginal farmers and substantially contributes to the country's overall growth in the dairy sector.
