Introduction :-

In our pursuit of understanding and appreciating the dynamic landscape of

agricultural research and innovation, we embarked on an insightful industrial tour to several
esteemed institutions. Our journey took us to the forefront of grape cultivation, floral
research, stress management, agricultural extension, and rural development. Through
immersive visits to each site, we gained valuable insights into the diverse facets of
agricultural advancement. This report encapsulates our observations and learnings from our
visits to the following institutions National Research Centre for Grapes A bastion of grape
research and development, offering profound insights into advanced cultivation techniques
and innovative processing methods.Directorate of Floricultural Research Delving into the
world of flowers, we explored cutting-edge research and practices aimed at enhancing the
quality and productivity of floriculture.National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management:
Unraveling the complexities of abiotic stressors on crops, we learned about pioneering
strategies and technologies devised to mitigate their adverse effects. Baramati Krishi
Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Serving as a beacon of agricultural extension services, our visit
shed light on sustainable farming practices and the dissemination of agricultural knowledge
to rural communities. BAIF (Bharatiya Agro Industries Foundation) - Urli Kanchan At the
forefront of rural development initiatives, our exploration of BAIF showcased innovative
approaches towards livelihood improvement and community empowerment.

Day 1st :-
On 26 December 2023 we departing from the college at 10:00 a.m., we arrived
at BAIF (Bharatiya Agro Industries Foundation) in Urali Kanchan by 12:00 p.m. The
journey, filled with anticipation, signaled the start of our educational tour. Our visit to
BAIF marked the commencement of our exploration into sustainable agriculture and rural
development.

Day 2nd :-
On the 27th of December 2023 led us first to the National Research Centre for
Grapes, where we were privileged to engage with Dr. Prasad V. Sawant from 9:30 a.m. to
1:00 p.m. Dr. Sawant's expertise provided us with a holistic understanding of grape
cultivation, emphasizing crucial aspects such as soil and water management and the unique
advantages of cultivating grapes in Maharashtra.. Dr. Sawant highlighted the center's role in
developing new grape varieties like Manjritismis and Manjrimedica, which not only exhibit
superior qualities but also mitigate the need for excessive chemical usage, thereby
enhancing export potential and ensuring sustainability in grape cultivation .In the afternoon
session, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., we were hosted by Dr. Sanjay Ked at the Directorate
of Floricultural Research. Dr. Ked shared his extensive knowledge on the cultivation
practices of a diverse array of flowers, including Tuberose, Marigold, Annual
Chrysanthemum, Crossandra, Assorted loose flowers, Gladiolus, Amaryllis, and
Bougainvillea. Beyond cultivation techniques, his insights extended to harvesting methods,
post-harvest care, and effective marketing and sales strategies for these floral varieties.
These immersive experiences not only broadened our understanding of grape and floral
cultivation but also
underscored the critical role of research institutions like the National Research Centre for
Grapes and the Directorate of Floricultural Research in driving innovation and
sustainability in agriculture. Dr. Sawant and Dr. Ked's expertise, alongside their contact
details (7387640254 for Dr. Sawant and 7988153714 for Dr. Ked), serve as valuable
resources for future inquiries and collaborative endeavors.Continuing our exploration at the
National Research Centre for Grapes, Dr. Sawant elucidated the pivotal role of the institute
in collaborating with farmers to Moreover, Dr. Sawant's insights into the development of
new grape varieties, such as Manjritismis and Manjrimedica, underscored the center's
commitment to innovation and addressing the evolving needs of the agricultural
community. These new varieties not only promise enhanced quality and yield but also
contribute to reducing reliance on chemical inputs, aligning with global trends towards
healthier and more eco-friendly farming practices.At the Directorate of Floricultural
Research, Dr. Ked's discussions on cultivation practices delved into the intricate details of
each floral variety, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to optimize growth
and yield. His comprehensive overview of harvesting techniques and post-harvest care
highlighted the meticulous attention required to maintain the freshness and quality of
flowers, essential for market competitiveness .Furthermore, Dr. Ked's insights into
marketing and sales strategies provided valuable perspectives on leveraging market trends
and consumer preferences to maximize profitability in the floricultural industry.
Day 3rd :-

On the 28th of December commenced at the National Institute of Abiotic

Stress Management, where Dr. Ravi Kumar generously shared his expertise with us from
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Established in 2009, the NIASM addresses critical issues related to
climate stress, including temperature variations, rainfall patterns, waterlogging, and
salinity. Dr. Kumar elaborated on the institute's four departments: the School of Soil Stress
Management, the School of Water Stress Management, the School of Atmospheric Stress
Management, and the School of Social Science .During our visit, we gained insights into
the institute's focus on basic research, which includes germplasm screening, the study of
plant growth roots, and the application of new technologies in agricultural practices. A
highlight of our visit was the exploration of the Dragon Fruit research plot, where we
witnessed firsthand the institute's efforts in crop diversification. Additionally, Mr. Rajesh
Power, Technical Assistant, enlightened us on drone applications and intensive farming
techniques, while Dr. Krishna Jangid, Research Associate, provided a thorough explanation
of the abiotic stress management laboratory. In the afternoon session, from 2:00 p.m. to
5:00 p.m., we visited KVK Baramati, where Mr. Santosh Godse introduced our students to
apiculture, sericulture, and aquaculture. The hands-on experience of handling honey bee
hives and extracting honey from combs was particularly memorable. Later, we explored the
Vegetable Excellence Centre, where we were fascinated by the Hitch fully automated
greenhouse, showcasing innovative agricultural practices in controlled environments. These
immersive experiences not only broadened our understanding of abiotic stress management
and diversified agricultural practices but also underscored the significance of research
institutions like NIASM and outreach centers like KVK in driving sustainable agricultural
development. The knowledge shared by Dr. Ravi Kumar and Mr. Santosh Godse, along
with their contact details (9133120921 for Dr. Kumar and 9422519171 for Mr. Godse),
provided valuable resources for future inquiries and collaborative endeavors.
Day 4th :-

On the final day of our educational tour, dated 29th December

2023, our itinerary included a visit to BAIF, followed by our return journey to the campus.
From 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., we were graciously hosted by Mr. Prasant Dhumal, HR and
administrator at BAIF. Mr. Dhumal provided our students with an insightful overview of
the Central Research Station and the Semen Freezing Laboratory, shedding light on the
innovative research initiatives undertaken by BAIF. Additionally, a field visit allowed us to
explore cactus plantation management, offering practical insights into sustainable
cultivation practices. Post-lunch, at 1:00 p.m., we bid farewell to BAIF and commenced our
return journey to the campus. The return trip, though long, was marked by reflections on
the wealth of knowledge and experiences gained throughout our educational tour. As we
traversed back to the campus, each participant carried with them a profound appreciation
for the diverse facets of agricultural research and practice explored during our tour.
Conclusion:

Our four-day educational tour spanning various agricultural and research

institutions provided us with invaluable insights into the multifaceted realm of sustainable
agriculture, rural development, and abiotic stress management. Each day was meticulously
crafted to expose us to a diverse array of topics, ranging from grape cultivation and
floriculture to abiotic stress management and innovative agricultural practices .Throughout
our journey, we had the privilege of engaging with esteemed experts and researchers who
generously shared their knowledge and expertise. From Dr. Prasad V. Sawant's
comprehensive insights into grape cultivation to Dr. Ravi Kumar's elucidation of abiotic
stress management techniques, each interaction enriched our understanding and inspired us
to delve deeper into the complexities of modern agriculture .Whether it was exploring the
Dragon Fruit research plot or handling honey bee hives at KVK Baramati, these
experiences left an indelible impression, igniting a passion for sustainable agricultural
practices

Learning’s From This Tour :-

 The tour provided a comprehensive introduction to sustainable agriculture and rural
development initiatives, starting from our visit to BAIF. Understanding the
importance of sustainable practices is crucial for ensuring long-term environmental
and economic viability in agriculture.
 Through interactions with experts like Dr. Prasad V. Sawant, we gained insights
into grape cultivation techniques, including soil and water management, training,
and pruning methods. These techniques are essential for optimizing grape yield and
quality.
 Learning about the efforts of institutions like the National Research Centre for
Grapes to mitigate chemical residues in grapes highlighted the importance of
sustainable practices in addressing agricultural challenges.
 Our visit to the National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management showcased efforts
in crop diversification, with a focus on exploring alternative crops like dragon fruit.
Crop diversification is essential for enhancing resilience to climate change and
expanding agricultural opportunities.
 Understanding abiotic stressors like temperature variations, rainfall patterns, and
salinity, and learning about mitigation strategies at the NIASM emphasized the need
for innovative approaches to address climate-related challenges in agriculture.
 Visiting institutions like KVK Baramati exposed us to diversified agricultural
practices such as apiculture, sericulture, and aquaculture. Diversification can
enhance farm productivity, income, and resilience to market fluctuations.
 Engaging in field visits and hands-on activities, such as handling honey bee hives
and exploring automated greenhouses, provided practical insights into agricultural
practices and technologies.
 The tour facilitated interactions with experts and researchers, providing valuable
networking opportunities and access to resources for future inquiries and
collaborative endeavors.