Haryana-based Jagpal Singh Phogat ventured into beekeeping in 2001 despite scepticism from his community and family, including his father, who humorously questioned his choice of raising bees over traditional livestock.

Initially regarded as an eccentric idea, beekeeping soon proved its potential. Jagpal filled 25 large tins with honey within a month, earning more in a short time than what traditional wheat farming yielded in six months.

Jagpal recognised the economic advantages of beekeeping over traditional farming. He points out that beekeeping requires a one-time investment and provides yields year after year.

“That’s a big difference. Plus, any small farmer can start beekeeping, even without much land,” adds the 59-year-old.

Originally an English teacher, Jagpal discovered his passion for beekeeping through a relative. This led to a career shift from the classroom to the apiary.

In 2001, he purchased 30 bee boxes from a farmer in Delhi, investing Rs 60,000 at Rs 2,000 per box.

He then learned the intricacies of beekeeping from other farmers, acquiring experience that he now shares with fellow agriculturalists.

Today, he travels across India, leveraging diverse floral landscapes to produce a variety of honey. He has also diversified into byproducts like beeswax and royal jelly, establishing a strong market presence under the brands ‘Nature Fresh’ and ‘Bee Buzz’.

His son also joined the venture, boosting its reach by establishing an online presence. Together, they achieved an annual turnover of Rs 2 crore, proving beekeeping’s lucrative potential.

Once called ‘bawla’ (crazy) by villagers for his unconventional ideas, Jagpal is now a local hero. Many who doubted him have adopted beekeeping themselves. He has also trained over 500 farmers in his region.