Udit Vani Jamshedpur : In the remote village of Khokhro under Bodam block, 45 Sabar families — a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) — have scripted a remarkable story of transformation.
Traditionally reliant on forest-based livelihoods, these families have turned their age-old practice of honey collection into a structured and sustainable enterprise, sparking what is now being called Bodam’s “Sweet” Revolution.
From Tradition to Transformation
The Sabar community has long depended on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) like mahua, leaves, broom grass, and especially wild forest honey. While nearly 2 tonnes of honey were collected annually, lack of proper storage, market access, and fair pricing often rendered their hard work fruitless.
*Government Intervention – PM-JANMAN and the Establishment of VDVK
A turning point came in 2024 with the implementation of the PM-JANMAN scheme, under which a Van Dhan Vikas Kendra (VDVK) was set up in Khokhro. Launched on September 16, 2024, the initiative provided members of the Sabar community with training in scientific honey collection, beekeeping, processing, and branding.
Empowerment Through Training and Tools
Women from the community received training in hygienic honey collection, filtration, and packaging. Additionally, 30 families were equipped with toolkits—including axes, knives, funnels, gloves, helmets, and jars—significantly boosting participation and confidence.
Bodam Honey – A Brand with an Identity
The launch of the Bodam Honey brand, with its attractive labeling, safe packaging, and premium quality, has given the product a unique identity. More than just honey, Boram Honey now represents the empowered voice of the Sabar community.
Structured Marketing and FPO Collaboration
Organized sales began through the Tejaswini Mahila Kisan Producer Group FPO and 16 Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), ensuring fair pricing and direct market access for the community.
Looking Ahead – Organic Farming and B-Box Distribution
Future plans include expanding beekeeping through the distribution of B-Boxes, which will not only boost honey production but also promote organic farming through enhanced pollination, creating a balance between forest and agriculture.
From Forest Dependency to Self-Reliance
The success of Bodam Honey is more than just a story of selling honey—it’s a testament to resilience, learning, and community-driven progress. The Sabar families of Khokhro have proven that with the right opportunities, guidance, and support, even the most remote communities can carve a path to self-reliance — one drop of honey at a time.
उदित वाणी 
टेलीग्राम पर भी उपलब्ध है। यहां क्लिक करके आप सब्सक्राइब कर सकते हैं।