Apis mellifera, the European bee, rather better known in India as Italian bee was introduced in India by Punjab Agriculture University some time end of decade of '70 or early decade of '80. Initially it was not acceptable to beekeepers and had to be promoted. By now however it is extremely popular in Northern States but acceptability in NE States and Southern States is not of that stage. Its introduction has mixed reaction. Advantage being production of honey is much higher than our Cerena species but Mellifera has to fed during lean season and go only to cultivated crops. After introduction situation changed drastically as monopoly of beekeeping in Southern states diminished and Eastern states like West Bengal and Bihar emerged as leaders. Attachment gives brief idea about our great guest which is not able to adjust in our enveronment even after several generations.
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