Visually impaired apiarist from Leankonger showcased during NBHM training in Shamator

Shamator, January 30 (MExN): An inspiring case of inclusive livelihood generation emerged during the scientific beekeeping training programmes conducted under the National Bee Board–National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBB-NBHM) from January 17 to 19 in Shamator district, highlighting the journey of Tsangmong, a 37-year-old visually impaired apiarist from Leankonger Village.

Blind since childhood due to illness, Tsangmong has been engaged in beekeeping for nearly five years without any formal training. Drawing inspiration from information shared by fellow villagers, he began apiculture through self-learning, persistence and experimentation. Using locally available materials, he constructs semi-traditional handmade bee boxes and independently manages his colonies.

According to the technical team associated with the training programme, Tsangmong has come to be referred to as the “Miracle Beekeeper” for his ability to manage beekeeping operations without sight. His first bee colony was formed after a natural swarm settled near his home, which he identified through sound and carefully transferred into a box. While progress was initially slow, his efforts gradually yielded results.

At present, Tsangmong maintains four active bee colonies and produces multiple honey harvests each year. He determines the appropriate time for harvesting by lifting the boxes and assessing their weight, relying on touch and experience rather than visual cues.

The case was highlighted during the ongoing NBHM-supported scientific beekeeping training and demonstration programmes being conducted across Eastern Nagaland districts. These programmes aim to strengthen farmer capacities, promote scientific apiculture practices, enhance livelihood opportunities and improve productivity in oilseed crops through organised beekeeping.

During one of the training days at Leankonger Village, Bodi Kapfo, SDO (Civil), Shamator district, joined the programme and handed over a scientific bee box to Tsangmong.

The training and demonstration programmes are funded by the National Bee Board (NBB), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM). The initiative is being implemented by the School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus.

The project is led by Dr Mary N. Odyuo, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, along with Dr Avinash Chauhan, Scientist, AICRP on Honey Bee and Pollinators, who serves as Co-Principal Investigator. Both are also the Course Directors of the training programme.