Udhampur, March 25, 2025 – Apiculture in Udhampur has seen a remarkable upswing this year, driven by unusually favourable climatic conditions that have created an ideal environment for honey production. Local beekeepers, including seasoned veteran Abdul Gani from Thaplal, Batote, are reaping the benefits of this natural boon, marking a promising season for the region’s honey industry.
Abdul Gani, who has been tending bees since 1990, made the strategic decision to shift his operations to Udhampur earlier this year. With over three decades of experience, Gani recognized the potential in Udhampur’s weather patterns, which have aligned perfectly with the needs of his colonies. “The climate here this year has been just right—moderate temperatures, good humidity, and plenty of flowering plants,” Gani explained. “It’s a beekeeper’s dream.”
The surge in apiculture comes as Udhampur experiences a unique combination of mild weather and abundant floral resources, conditions that have bolstered bee activity and honey yields. Local agricultural experts note that the region’s subtropical climate, typically characterized by hot summers and monsoon rains from June to September, has been tempered this year by consistent rainfall and cooler-than-average temperatures—factors that have extended the blooming season and supported robust bee populations.
Abdul Gani, originally from Thaplal near Batote, is no stranger to adapting to nature’s rhythms. His early move to Udhampur allowed him to position his hives ahead of the peak flowering period, giving his bees a head start in foraging. “Timing is everything in this trade,” he said. “You have to read the signs—the weather, the flowers, the bees themselves—and act fast.”
The impact of this apiculture boom extends beyond individual beekeepers like Gani. Local markets in Udhampur have reported a noticeable increase in honey supply, with vendors optimistic about meeting growing demand both locally and beyond. The district, nestled in Jammu Division’s subtropical zone at an altitude of 300 to 1,000 meters above sea level, is emerging as a key player in the region’s beekeeping landscape.
While the favourable conditions have brought prosperity, they also highlight the delicate balance of apiculture in the face of changing climates. Experts caution that such ideal seasons may not persist, urging beekeepers to innovate and adapt to ensure long-term sustainability. For now, though, Abdul Gani and his fellow apiculturists in Udhampur are savouring a sweet success, one hive at a time.