🐝 Nagaland’s Stingless Bees: Small Wings, Big Impact on Crops and Farmer Incomes

Kohima | May 2025:
In a promising breakthrough for sustainable agriculture, researchers at Nagaland University have identified two native varieties of stingless bees that can significantly boost crop yields and farmer livelihoods in the region — all without the sting.

The study, led by Dr. Avinash Chauhan from the university’s Department of Entomology, found that these bees are not only safer for use in delicate agricultural environments like greenhouses but are also highly effective pollinators. The two bee varieties — Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera — are native to the Northeastern state and had long been overlooked in mainstream farming practices.

“We knew traditional honeybees were important, but they come with limitations. In contrast, stingless bees are ideal for use in environments where safety, manageability, and pollination efficiency are crucial,” said Dr. Chauhan.

🌿 Pollination That Pays Off

The research involved testing stingless bee colonies in greenhouse conditions and tracking their effect on common crops like:

Chilli and king chilli

Cucumber

Brinjal (eggplant)

Watermelon

Tomato

Dragon fruit

In chilli crops, researchers recorded a 30% increase in fruit set, while king chilli pollination success rose from 21% to 29.46%. Seed weight and germination rates also improved — critical indicators of long-term crop viability and quality.

“They weren’t just pollinating — they were enhancing the entire crop cycle,” Chauhan explained.

🍯 Honey with Health and Income Benefits

In addition to their pollination superpowers, these stingless bees produce honey known for its medicinal properties. Though the quantity is less than what traditional honeybees yield, the quality is much higher, with a reduced risk of adulteration.

“This honey is potent, natural, and adds a new stream of income for farmers,” Chauhan noted.

🧑‍🌾 A Sustainable Future for Farmers

The initiative has opened up new avenues for integrated farming, where pollination, crop yield, and honey production work in synergy. With proper training and support, farmers across Nagaland and the Northeast could benefit from adopting these stingless bee colonies — a solution that is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and scalable.

📌 Key Highlights:

Two stingless bee species identified: Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera

Up to 30% increase in fruit set in chilli crops

Medicinal honey production offers additional income

Safe for greenhouses and indoor farms

Native to Nagaland and well-adapted to local ecosystems

Stingless, yet mighty — these tiny pollinators could be the silent allies that Northeast India needs for a greener, healthier, and more prosperous agricultural future.