The word HONEY is synonymous with Marthandam. In the year 1924, Dr.Spencer Hatch, a fraternal secretary from the North America, who was heading the YMCA Rural Centres, Marthandam during that period, found the existence of bees in the villages and in the hilly areas of South Travancore, brought the techniques of beekeeping from the home country and introduced among the poor villages around Marthandam as one of the self employment programmes. It was well accepted by the villagers and they could realize the importance of this trade. Thus, the YMCA Rural Centres, Marthandam pioneered in the field of Apiary in the country.
From then on, the YMCA has been conducting the training in beekeeping. Thousands of beekeepers trained in the YMCA Rural Centres, Marthandam have been spread throughout the length and breadth of the Indian sub-continent.
Presently, the YMCA conducts regular six months courses for beekeeping every year for both men and women. The systematic syllabus includes theory, practical training, demonstrations, fieldwork and visits to collections spots imparted by experts in the subjects.
Currently, this industry has grown to the tune of 2 million bee-hives with 10,000 bee keepers, with an annual production of 25 million kgs of apiary honey.
Bee Demonstration
Honey is a complete food rich in minerals, vitamins and other essential components as Levulose, Dextrose, Sucrose, Dextrines and Gums, minerals as Silica, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Chlorine, Calcium, Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium etc.
Honey is considered as a best medicine for strengthening the blood vessels, rejuvenating weak heart, proper functioning of kidneys, clear eye sight and fairness, blood purification, strengthening nerves and re-equipping strength. Honey is claimed as a healer of stomach ache, fire wounds and eye pain.