According to Nepal Bee-Keepers´ Association, Chitwan, shortage of flowers due to change in weather conditions and improper market management led to decline in production. Shiva Poudel, central representative of the association, said honey production had declined to 60 tons this year from 150 tons recorded last year. [break]
Farmers say changes in weather patterns due to adverse impacts of climate change in the district ultimately resulted into decline in production.
Pokharel added that absence of advanced technology and incentives to farmers were other reasons behind the decline in production.
“Kathmandu is the main market for honey produced in the district. But locally produced honey is fast being displaced from the market due to the increasing presence of imported honey,” Pokharel added.
Kamal Wagle, an officer at District Agriculture Office, Chitwan, said decline in mustard plantation was another key reason behind the decline in honey production.
Honey is produced in about 30 districts across the country, including Chitwan. More than 150 farmers are involved in bee-farming. According to Pokharel, total honey production in the country declined to 400 tons this year from around 600 tons recorded last year.
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