Farmers Face Crisis as Local Authorities Order Removal of Beehives
Summary
Farmers from Madhes Province have been forced to remove their beehives from Swargadwari Municipality in Pyuthan after local authorities ordered them to leave within 24 hours. The move has disrupted honey production, with beekeepers saying their livelihoods and seasonal grazing plans are now in jeopardy.
Key Points
- Swargadwari Municipality ordered beekeepers to remove Melifera beehives within 24 hours, warning of confiscation and action if they did not comply.
- Farmers from Bara, Rautahat and Sarlahi said the order has disrupted long-standing bee grazing practices used for Churee honey production in Pyuthan and Rolpa.
- The municipality said it had enforced the Serena Bee Conservation Policy, 2082 to protect local bees, biodiversity and reduce disease risks.
- Beekeepers and industry representatives argued that the decision was unilateral and could hurt honey output and farmer livelihoods in Madhes Province.
