Tamil Nadu Agricultural University displays alternative sweetener

COIMBATORE: At the two-day ‘World Honey Bee Day’ celebrations organised by the Department of Entomology of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) that was inaugurated on Saturday, visitors got an insight into bee-keeping activity.

Dr K Ramaraju, director of research, TNAU inaugurated the celebrations and Dr A S Krishhnamoorthy, director (CPPS), TNAU, presided over the function. In his inaugural address Dr Ramaraju stated that in the contemporary era, the public must be aware of the importance of bees and bee keeping.

“Farmers on the other hand must necessarily be encouraged to engage in bee keeping as the bees go a long way in helping human race through pollination and the same can help them earn an additional revenue,” he said.

For the various health benefits, honey offers, Dr Ramaraju, motivated the visitors to consider switching to honey as an alternative to sugar in their homes. “The department of entomology at the university organizes bee-keeping at the campus every month that has many takers. An additional one week training programme is also available for those who want to try honey keeping.” Dr Ramaraju said.

At the campus there are eight stalls that have on display honey collected from various bee hives. Also for sale are by-products that are made from honey.
The celebrations will conclude on Sunday and entry is free.