World Bee Day

World Bee Day is observed on May 20 all over the world. This day reminds us of the important role bees play in preserving the ecosystem. May 20 was selected as World Bee Day to pay honor to Anton Jansa, who started the art of beekeeping in the 18th century in Slovenia, Europe. World Bee Day is celebrated on his birthday every year.

Bees are one of the most important pollinators in nature. It is estimated that bees pollinate about 35 percent of all flowering plants in the world. Bees are known to make delicious honey but they also help to protect the environment and fight climate change. They help in agriculture and provide job opportunities, especially in rural areas. 

Bees are now facing the threat of extinction due to several human activities, such as extensive use of land, commercial agricultural practices and the frequent use of pesticides. Due to this, many people have picked up beekeeping as a hobby, which is called Apiculture. The involved individual is referred to as an apiarist. 

As of January 2023, India has over 12 million beehives, which is the largest number of beehives in the world. China has around 9 million beehives, making it the second largest beehive country.