Safeguarding the Swarm: Ludhiana Agri-Varsity Equips Officers to Combat the Devastating Small Hive Beetle

In a crucial move to protect the vital honeybee populations across Northern India, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana recently concluded an intensive two-day workshop. This specialized training aimed to arm extension officers from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to combat the menacing Small Hive Beetle (SHB), Aethina tumida.

The tiny, yet incredibly destructive, Small Hive Beetle poses a significant threat to apiaries, capable of wreaking havoc on bee colonies, spoiling honey, and even causing colonies to abandon their hives.

Its rapid reproductive cycle and ability to thrive in various conditions make it a formidable foe for beekeepers. Recognizing this escalating challenge, the Department of Entomology, under the aegis of the Directorate of Extension Education at PAU, spearheaded this critical initiative.

The workshop, held on the university campus, brought together a dedicated group of professionals who serve as the frontline advisors to beekeepers in their respective regions.

The comprehensive curriculum delved deep into understanding the enemy, covering essential aspects such as the accurate identification of the Small Hive Beetle at various life stages, its intricate life cycle, and the devastating damage it inflicts upon bee colonies. Participants gained insights into the tell-tale signs of infestation, from larvae tunneling through combs to honey becoming contaminated and fermenting.

Beyond identification, a major focus was placed on integrated management strategies.

The training explored both chemical and non-chemical methods for controlling SHB populations. Experts meticulously demonstrated various techniques, including the use of traps, cultural practices, and judicious application of approved pesticides, all while emphasizing sustainable and bee-friendly approaches.

The goal was to equip officers with a diverse toolkit, enabling them to recommend tailored solutions based on the specific conditions of an apiary.

Renowned entomologists and bee experts from PAU, including Dr. P.C. Garg and Dr. J.S. Bhalla, shared their invaluable insights. They highlighted the beetle's peculiar behavior, such as its preference for humid, tropical climates, and its ability to rapidly overwhelm weakened colonies.

Their lectures underscored the urgency of proactive management and continuous vigilance.

A significant component of the workshop involved hands-on practical sessions. Participants ventured into active apiaries, where they learned to inspect hives for SHB, identify damage, and implement control measures in real-world settings.

These practical demonstrations proved invaluable, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and field application. Officers were also trained on how to educate beekeepers effectively, ensuring that the knowledge disseminates down to the grassroots level.

Feedback from the participating extension officers was overwhelmingly positive.

They lauded the university's initiative, emphasizing the dire need for such targeted training in a region where beekeeping is a significant agricultural activity. They expressed confidence that the acquired skills would empower them to better assist local beekeepers in safeguarding their bee colonies, thereby protecting their livelihoods and ensuring the continued health of the ecosystem.

This workshop marks a vital step in PAU's ongoing commitment to supporting agricultural communities and promoting sustainable practices.

By strengthening the capabilities of extension officers, the university is directly contributing to the resilience of the beekeeping industry, ensuring that the buzz of healthy honeybee colonies continues to enrich the agricultural landscape of northern India.