Beekeeping (apiculture) is practiced in Manipur for the production of honey, wax, and other bee products. Honey is a sweet, viscous food substance produced by bees and some related insects from the nectar of flowers or from secretions of plants and trees, primarily from honeydew. It is collected by humans and is valued for its high content of fructose and glucose, its mild flavor, and its ability to be stored without spoiling. Wax is a natural, yellow, or white solid produced by bees in the hive. It is used to build the honeycomb, which is used to store honey and pollen. Wax is also used to make candles, cosmetics, and other products. Other bee products include propolis, royal jelly, and bee pollen. Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from trees and plants. It is used to seal cracks in the hive and to protect the bees from disease. Royal jelly is a milky substance produced by worker bees to feed the queen bee and her larvae. It is considered to be a health food and is used in some cosmetics and dietary supplements. Bee pollen is a powder produced by bees from pollen grains. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
In Manipur, beekeeping is a traditional practice that has been passed down for generations. The main species of bee that is kept in Manipur is the Apis cerana, also known as the Indian honey bee. Beekeeping is practiced in both rural and urban areas, and the honey produced is used for both domestic consumption and sale. The state government of Manipur has also been promoting beekeeping as a means of livelihood generation for rural communities.