Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday launched the ‘BILLION TREE HONEY INITIATIVE’ to increase the production of honey through the plantation of trees.
Under the program, the plantation of trees, including Kao, Phulai, Ber, Kikar and other will encourage the bee flora. A mechanism will be also be provided to support bee flora, improve the quality of honey production, provide livelihoods to beekeepers. Moreover, it will provide financial resources to sustain the activity, Radio Pakistan reported.
LAUNCH CEREMONY OF ‘BILLION TREE HONEY INITIATIVE’
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Islamabad, Prime Minister Imran admired the idea of using forests in honey production. He said BILLION TREE HONEY INITIATIVE will give jobs to locals. “When local people see they will make money and earn income, they will protect forests more than anyone,” he said.
He noted that Pakistan’s honey exports were very low. Despite of having a lot of variety of honey in the country.
“We have 12 climatic zones which is very unique. Similarly, 12 different zones mean 12 different habitats so we can make honey of different varieties,” the premier said. He further added that the government will help producers with quality control, without which the product cannot be exported.
Prime Minister Imran also highlighted the potential of growing olive and avocado trees in the country. Furthermore, he said both of the plants are planted in his home garden. Through olive plantation, Pakistan could be able to export olive oil and avoid the import of edible oil, he said.
Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Climate Change Malik Amin Aslam said the BILLION TREE HONEY INITIATIVE will help improve the country’s potential to produce 70,000 metric tonnes of honey in a year.
Under the initiative, he said,they will train the beekeepers. As a result, it will increase the value of the country’s honey in the international market through proper branding and quality certification.
PM Imran Khan anticipates that marketing of 70,000 metric tonnes of honey will generate an income of around PKR 43 billion. Moreover it will provide about 87,000 green jobs.
Various organizations signed a note of understanding to promote beekeeping and plantation in the country.
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