CM Sukhu assures action as small hive beetle spread worries beekeepers

Shimla, September 19 (UNI) A rapid spread of the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray) in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the lower areas of the state, has emerged as a major concern for beekeepers, with the pest causing considerable losses to the beekeeping community. The issue was raised before Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu by a delegation of beekeepers led by Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania here on Saturday. The delegation apprised the Chief Minister of various problems being faced by beekeepers and drew his attention to the spread of the small hive beetle, which has particularly affected apiaries…