Prime Minister shares pic on X, applauds Nazim’s Nazir’s remarkable beekeeping journey, govt support

PAMPORE: At the Viksit Bharat event held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, Pampore’s beekeeper Nazim Nazir, hailing from Samboora, engaged in an enlightening discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.
Nazim, formerly a nursing student, seized the opportunity to discuss his thriving beekeeping enterprise with the Prime Minister, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the government’s unwavering support. At the age of 23, Nazim embarked on his beekeeping journey in 2017, driven by the challenge of finding pure honey in local markets within his hometown of Pampore.
During the interaction, Nazim shared insights into his beekeeping activities with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing gratitude for the assistance received from the government, particularly through the Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), which has significantly bolstered his operations.
“I am Nazim Nazir from Samboora, Pampore. I began my journey by placing two beehives on my house’s rooftop and tending to them. Over time, with guidance from online resources, I expanded my enterprise. In 2019, I acquired 25 additional boxes from the government, already having harvested 75 kg of honey,” Nazim recounted during his conversation with Prime Minister Modi.
“After starting with those 25 boxes and selling honey in nearby villages, earning 60,000 rupees, I expanded my enterprise to 200 boxes. With the support of the PMEGP scheme, I received 5 lakh rupees, further boosting my business. By 2020, I established my website, significantly amplifying my brand. Through online sales, by 2023, I managed to sell 50,000 kg of honey,” he added, highlighting his remarkable journey.
“Subsequently, with 200 boxes and a team of 100 individuals joining me in beekeeping, we attained FPO support, facilitating our marketing efforts. Initially, I encountered challenges in pursuing beekeeping due to limited support. However, the government’s substantial backing has transformed the landscape,” Nazim emphasized.
Nazim’s interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi culminated in a cherished selfie, symbolizing his status as a beneficiary of the Viksit Bharat program. Prime Minister Modi, in his post sharing the photo, hailed Nazim as his “friend,” lauding his commendable endeavors and extending best wishes for his future pursuits.
“A memorable selfie with my friend Nazim. I was impressed by the good work he’s doing. At the public meeting, he requested a selfie and was happy to meet him. My best wishes for his future endeavors,” PM wrote on X.
This exchange underscores the government’s steadfast commitment to empowering individuals like Nazim in their entrepreneurial endeavors, thereby fostering growth and development in rural communities across India.
Expressing his elation at the opportunity to interact with the Prime Minister, Nazim revealed that Prime Minister Modi also inquired about beekeeping during their conversation. Following the exchange, Nazim requested a selfie with the Prime Minister, which was warmly received, accompanied by a handshake, hug, and the shared selfie.
Furthermore, Nazim expressed gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom, and the administration of Pulwama district, as well as the Lieutenant Governor for their steadfast support.

BILAL HABIB