Topic: Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
4. What is the importance of bees in agriculture? Examine challenges faced by the Beekeeping sector in the country, and suggest ways to promote the sector. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Down to Earth , Insights on India
Why the question:
The article highlights the important role of bees in the pollination of crops and the need to protect them for the benefit of agriculture. It discusses the impact of pesticides and habitat loss on bee populations, as well as the need for research to better understand the relationship between bees and agriculture.
Key Demand of the question:
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by presenting the status of Beekeeping industry in the country
Body:
First, write about the role of bees in agriculture.
Next, write about the various challenges faced by beekeeping industry – decline in bee populations, increasing production costs, and lack of access to markets for beekeepers’ products etc.
Next, write about steps that are needed – promote the sector, raising awareness, providing support, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and improving access to credit and markets for beekeepers.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
