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 beekeepers and sold as a food or used in some products such as cosmetics. 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 in 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 hive from pests. Royal jelly is a milky substance produced by worker bees to feed the queen bee and larvae. It is considered to be a health food and is used in some cosmetics and supplements. Bee pollen is a powder produced by bees from pollen grains. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Beekeeping is a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to produce food and other products. It is also a source of income for many people in Manipur.