Honey production is growing in the picturesque Kohistan salt mountain range of Khushab district with thousands of local families associated with beekeeping for their livelihood.
A large number of beehives can be seen in the mountainous area from which the local people get honey.
A local expert in beekeeping, Attaullah Khan, told The Express Tribune that the skill, called apiculture, has been used beneficially by humans for a long period and it is not only a useful hobby but a lucrative source of livelihood.
"We can make it a source of increase in national income in addition to meeting nutritional needs," he said.
He said honey is also antiseptic.In addition to honey, the bees produce wax that is used in shoe polish, creams, cosmetics, candles, protecting ammunition from moisture and electrical appliances. The bee milk is also used as medicine for anaemia, digestive and liver function, leukemia, arteriosclerosis, gastric ulcer, loss of appetite, joint pain, epilepsy and infertility, the expert said.
Domna, small and mountain bee species are found naturally in the country, while European bees are imported.
However, only the mountain and European bees are domesticated.
Attaullah said a variety of tools and equipment were requited for beekeeping.
He said the workers also required net and gloves for their safety. The farmers should also approach the bees carefully without disturbing them smoke them away with a blower and avoid any irritating odour for the bees.
He said some nectar should be left for bees and they would be checked at regular intervals without much disturbance.
Another beekeeping expert, Rehmat Khan, said the period from March to May is the honey producing season because of abundance of flowers. The bees are kept in a place with excellent and plentiful flower juice with a source of water. The hives should be in shade and shielded from strong wind and rain.
The front of the hive or box should be exposed to the sun.
He said taking care of the bees while keeping in view the climatic conditions demanded full attention of the beekeeper.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 18th, 2022.
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