New Delhi, Nov 30 (NationPress) During the latest installment of his monthly radio show, 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India's remarkable achievements in honey production, which has soared to 1.5 lakh metric tonnes, while honey exports have seen an impressive threefold surge in recent years.

In the 128th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi remarked, "Today, India is breaking records in honey production. Eleven years back, the figure stood at only 76,000 metric tonnes. Now, it has surged past 1.5 lakh metric tonnes. Furthermore, honey exports have more than tripled over the last few years."

He elaborated on the Honey Mission initiative, which has enabled Khadi Gramodyog to distribute over 2.25 lakh bee-boxes to individuals, thereby creating new employment opportunities for thousands.

"The sweetness of honey is spreading across innumerable regions of our nation, and along with it, the earnings of farmers are also on the rise," he added.

PM Modi commended the dedication and effort of those involved in honey cultivation, stating, "While we all appreciate the sweetness of honey, we often overlook the immense labor, traditions, and harmonious relationship with nature that go into its production."

He also highlighted a unique honey produced by bees in the hilly terrain of Jammu and Kashmir that comes from wild basil, referred to as Ramban Sulai honey. This honey, which is white in color, received a GI tag a few years ago, enhancing its recognition nationwide.

In Puttur, located in the Dakshina Kannada district, the environment is deemed ideal for honey production, with a farmers' group named 'Gramjanya' paving new paths for this natural blessing.

He mentioned that 'Gramjanya' has established a modern processing unit equipped with a lab, bottling, storage, and digital tracking facilities.

"Now, this honey is transforming into a branded product that reaches urban areas from rural origins. More than 2,500 farmers have benefited from this initiative," he remarked.

PM Modi also acknowledged the contributions of an organization named 'ShivgangaKalanjiya' in Tumkuru, Karnataka.

"Each member receives two bee-boxes initially, connecting numerous farmers to its initiative. They collectively extract honey, package it effectively, and supply it to local markets, earning significant profits," he noted.

He provided another example of traditional honey hunting practiced by the Khiamni-Yangan tribe in Nagaland.

"In Choklangan village, these tribes have been extracting honey for generations from bees that build their hives on steep cliffs. The honey gathering process is perilous; thus, the locals politely communicate with the bees to seek their permission before harvesting," he added.