To promote beekeeping in tribal and rural areas, generate employment, conserve biodiversity, and encourage sustainable tourism, the “Honey Village” scheme has been introduced by the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board. Chairman Ravindra Sathe announced that, in the first phase for the year 2025–26, ten villages across the state have been selected. Among them, Sindhivihir village in Wardha district and Amjhari village in Amravati district from the Vidarbha region have been included.

Speaking at a press conference held at Ravi Bhavan, Sathe highlighted that the initiative aims to empower rural communities by creating new livelihood opportunities. Other selected villages include Gholwad (Palghar), Bhandarwadi (Nanded), Borzar (Nandurbar), Kakaddabha (Hingoli), Chakore (Nashik), Udadawane (Ahmednagar), Shelmoha (Parbhani), and Saloshi (Satara). A total fund of ₹5.01 crore has been sanctioned for the project. In the initial phase, 348 beekeepers have been selected and provided with ten days of training in honey production and collection.

The scheme focuses not only on honey production but also on building a complete ecosystem around it. Beneficiaries will receive 1,650 bee boxes, protective equipment, and essential kits with 90% government subsidy and 10% personal contribution. The project also includes setting up honey processing and packaging units, common facility centers, awareness hubs, and even honey-themed tourism spots to attract visitors.

Sathe emphasized that this initiative will help farmers and rural youth earn additional income while ensuring the availability of pure and high-quality honey from Vidarbha in the market. It also strengthens environmental conservation through the protection of bees and natural resources.

He further informed that Narhar village in Parseoni taluka of Nagpur district has been identified for inclusion in the next phase of the Honey Village scheme, marking another step toward rural development and self-sufficiency in the region.