Comprehensive Tour Report

Chapter 1: Introduction

Educational tours play a crucial role in a student’s academic journey,

providing practical exposure that enhances theoretical learning. Unlike
conventional classroom teaching, these tours allow students to observe,
experience, and analyze various concepts in real-world settings. They foster
curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of subjects by
bridging the gap between books and reality.

For teacher trainees, study tours are particularly significant as they help in
developing observational skills, adaptability, and a broader perspective on
teaching methodologies. By visiting diverse locations—such as research
institutions, ecological hotspots, and cultural landmarks—students gain
insights into different environments, social structures, and sustainable
practices.

Beyond academics, study tours promote teamwork, responsibility, and self-

reliance. Traveling together, managing schedules, and adapting to new
situations contribute to the overall development of interpersonal and
problem-solving skills. Additionally, exposure to different cultures, traditions,
and lifestyles fosters a sense of appreciation and respect for diversity.

In essence, educational tours serve as a dynamic learning experience,

offering a break from routine studies while reinforcing academic concepts
through firsthand experiences. By integrating education with exploration,
they make learning more engaging, memorable, and impactful.

Chapter 2: Need and Significance of Study Tour in B.Ed Programme

A study tour is an essential component of the B.Ed curriculum, providing

teacher trainees with practical exposure beyond the classroom. It helps in
bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world applications by
allowing students to explore different educational and ecological
environments. Through firsthand experiences, interactions, and observations,
future educators gain valuable insights into teaching methodologies, cultural
diversity, and interdisciplinary learning.
Need and Significance of Study Tour in B.Ed Programme

1. Experiential Learning – Study tours provide hands-on experiences that

enhance theoretical understanding.

2. Observation and Practical Exposure – Trainees get to witness real-world

teaching methods and educational setups.

3. Enhanced Teaching Skills – Exposure to diverse environments helps in

developing innovative teaching techniques.

4. Interdisciplinary Learning – Combines multiple subjects for a more

integrated and holistic learning approach.

5. Cultural Awareness – Encourages inclusivity and broadens perspectives

on different social and cultural settings.

6. Teamwork and Collaboration – Promotes cooperation, leadership, and

communication skills among trainees.

7. Adaptability and Problem-Solving – Teaches resilience and quick

decision-making in unfamiliar situations.
 8. Environmental and Social Awareness – Creates a sense of responsibility
towards sustainability and conservation.

9. Inspiration and Motivation – Interaction with experts fosters curiosity

and encourages innovative thinking.

10. Break from Routine Learning – Offers an engaging and refreshing

alternative to traditional classroom education.

By incorporating study tours, the B.Ed programme ensures that future

teachers gain practical insights and essential life skills, making them well-
equipped for their professional journey.

Objectives of Study Tour

A study tour in the B.Ed programme is designed to provide teacher trainees

with practical exposure, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world teaching
experiences. It enhances their observational skills, adaptability, and
understanding of diverse educational settings.

Objectives

1. To bridge theory and practice – Helps in applying theoretical knowledge

in real-world educational settings.
 2. To enhance observational and analytical skills – Encourages critical
thinking by analyzing different learning environments.

3. To develop teaching competencies – Provides exposure to various

teaching methodologies and classroom management techniques.

4. To foster teamwork and leadership – Promotes collaboration,

communication, and decision-making skills.

5. To increase cultural and social awareness – Encourages understanding

of diverse communities and inclusive education.

6. To instill environmental consciousness – Educates about sustainability,

conservation, and eco-friendly practices.

7. To make learning more engaging and interactive – Breaks monotony

and provides an enjoyable yet educational experience.

Through these objectives, the study tour ensures holistic development,

preparing teacher trainees to be effective and well-rounded educators.

Chapter 3: Planning Phase

The planning phase was a crucial step in organizing our study tour, ensuring
that all aspects were well-coordinated and efficiently managed. Due to
health considerations, a one-day tour and two separate field visits were
chosen instead of the initial three-day tour plan. This allowed for a more
flexible and comfortable travel experience while still achieving the
educational objectives of the program.

The tour was supervised by Deepa Kurian, who took charge of overseeing the
arrangements and guiding us throughout the journey. To ensure smooth
execution, various committees were formed, each with a designated leader
responsible for specific tasks. The First Aid Committee was led by Anabia,
ensuring medical needs were addressed. The Finance Committee, managed
by Annu, handled budget planning and expense tracking. Silpa was in charge
of the Photography Committee, capturing moments from our tour. The Report
Committee, led by Romin, was responsible for documenting our experiences
and insights. The Food Committee, under Rosemaria, ensured proper meal
arrangements. Lastly, the Discipline Committee, managed by Ameena,
maintained order and coordination among participants. To streamline the
decision-making and overall management, Jilsha was appointed as the team
leader.

Initially, different locations were considered for the study tour, but after
careful evaluation, Thekkady was selected as the final destination for the
one-day tour. Additionally, two field visits were planned separately—one to
Vagamon and another to Home Grown Biotech—to provide diverse learning
experiences.

Chapter 4: Preparation Phase

Since the study tour comprised a one-day tour and two separate field visits,
the preparation process was relatively simpler compared to an extensive
three-day tour. Unlike a fully packaged tour, this approach allowed for
greater flexibility, as each visit was planned for a specific day rather than
consecutive travel days. This minimized the need for extensive consent
agreements or accommodation arrangements, making the planning more
manageable.
The key preparation involved securing the necessary approvals and
permissions from the selected locations to ensure a smooth and well-
organized experience. Prior communication was made with the authorities of
Pullikkanam Tea Factory, Base Farm Kolahalamedu, and Home Grown Biotech
Vizhikkathodu to obtain the required permissions for our visits. These
approvals were essential in facilitating guided interactions, expert
explanations, and hands-on learning experiences at each location.

Chapter 5: Execution phase

The execution phase successfully delivered the well-planned study tour,

ensuring a smooth and enriching experience for all participants.Over three
separate days, participants engaged in a variety of carefully scheduled
activities, including field visits and sightseeing, ensuring a smooth and
enriching experience.

A Memorable Journey: Our One-Day Educational Tour to Thekkady

As part of our B.Ed curriculum, we, a group of seven enthusiastic teacher

trainees embarked on an exciting one-day tour under the guidance of our
mentor, Deepa Miss, and non teaching staff Bindu . The journey was filled
with adventure, history, and scenic beauty, making it an unforgettable
experience for all of us.

Our journey began at 9:50 AM, when we boarded a Traveller along with our
driver, Syyaid. The air buzzed with excitement as we set off, ready to explore
the natural and historical wonders ahead. The road from Mundakkayam to
Kumily was breathtaking, with lush green hills, misty valleys, and picturesque
landscapes accompanying us throughout. The gentle sway of trees, the
chirping of birds, and the cool breeze made the ride even more delightful. To
add to the joy, we played melodious music in the Traveller, singing along and
enjoying every moment.

By 10:45 AM, we reached our first destination, the St. George CSI Church in
Pallikkunnu, Idukki. The sight of this magnificent church, built in 1869 by the
British, left us awestruck. Nestled amidst rolling hills, the church stood as a
fine example of European architecture, with its wild stone walls, antique
wooden furniture, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

We were fascinated by the history of the church. Originally, it was accessible

only to the British, with religious services conducted in English. However,
over time, Malayalam and Tamil services were introduced, making it a place
of worship for all. A particularly interesting aspect of the church was the
grave of a British officer’s horse, Downey, which lay among the tombstones
of 34 British individuals, including John Munro, a key figure in Munnar's tea
plantations.

The peaceful ambiance of the church, combined with the stunning scenery
around it, made our visit truly remarkable. After capturing some beautiful
photographs and soaking in the serene atmosphere, we continued our
journey.

By 11:45 AM, we arrived at Ammachi Kottaram, an elegant summer palace

built by Travancore Maharaja, Moolam Thirunal, for his wife. We were
welcomed by Dharmaraj, an elderly watcher who had been guarding the
palace for nearly 60 years. His dedication and knowledge about the palace
fascinated us.

Walking through the palace, we felt transported back in time. The structure,
though aged and worn out, still retained its royal charm. The wrap-around
veranda, grand halls, secret passageways, and expansive palace grounds
covering 25 acres told tales of a bygone era. Dharmaraj explained how the
palace served as a retreat for the Travancore Maharani, offering a peaceful
escape in the midst of the lush green tea and coffee plantations.

We also learned about the secret escape tunnels within the palace—one for
movement inside and another leading underground. The palace had recently
gained attention for being a filming location for popular Malayalam movies
like Carbon (2018) and Lucifer (2019).

After spending some time exploring and imagining life during the Travancore
era, we left Ammachi Kottaram and proceeded to our next stop.

After a morning filled with exploration, our hunger led us to a restaurant in

Thekkady at 1:15 PM. We relished a delicious biryani, savoring every bite
while sharing laughter and stories from the trip so far. The meal was not just
food for the stomach but also fuel for our excitement for the next adventure
—the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Post lunch, we reached Periyar Tiger Reserve before 3:00 PM. The place was
buzzing with tourists, including many foreign visitors, all eager to experience
the wilderness of Thekkady.

We managed to get tickets for the Periyar Lake boat ride, which is one of the
most popular attractions of the sanctuary. As we waited in line, we noticed
mischievous monkeys around us, boldly snatching food and bags from
unsuspecting tourists. Their antics provided endless entertainment as we
laughed at their clever tricks.

Once aboard the boat, we set sail on the calm waters of Periyar Lake,
surrounded by the dense forests of the wildlife sanctuary. The scenery was
breathtaking—towering trees reflected on the shimmering waters, and the
occasional ripples added to the tranquil charm of the lake.

As we cruised along, we spotted deer cautiously approaching the banks to

drink water. Though we hoped to see elephants or tigers, the afternoon
timing made sightings difficult. However, the overall experience was
mesmerizing, offering us a rare glimpse into the untouched beauty of nature.

After an hour-long boat ride, we returned to the shore, feeling refreshed and
in awe of the wilderness. We then boarded the Periyar Tiger Reserve buses,
which took us back to the parking area where our Traveller was waiting.

By 5:40 PM, we arrived at our final destination—Parunthumpara, a stunning

hilltop known as "Eagle Rock." As soon as we stepped out of the Traveller, we
were greeted by a cool breeze and a breathtaking view of the endless hills
and valleys.

Parunthumpara is known for its panoramic views of the Sabarimala forests,

and we were fortunate to witness a spectacular sunset. The sky turned into a
canvas of orange, pink, and purple hues, casting a golden glow over the
landscape. The view was so mesmerizing that we stood in silence, simply
soaking in the beauty of nature.
Apart from the scenic view, Parunthumpara also had small stalls selling local
handicrafts and snacks. We spent some time shopping for souvenirs and then
enjoyed a warm cup of coffee with light snacks, relishing the peaceful
evening atmosphere.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we knew it was time to head back
home. With hearts full of memories and phones full of photographs, we
boarded our Traveller for the return journey.

Some of our friends got down at convenient stops, while the rest of us
continued to our final destination. By 9:00 PM, we had all safely reached our
homes, marking the end of a truly unforgettable day.

This trip was more than just an excursion—it was an opportunity to bond,
learn, and appreciate the beauty of history, nature, and adventure. From
exploring the heritage sites to experiencing the thrill of the wild and finally
witnessing a breathtaking sunset, every moment was special.

As we look back on this wonderful journey, we feel grateful for the

experience and the friendships that made it even more memorable. This one-
day tour to Thekkady will forever remain etched in our hearts!

A Journey Through the Misty Hills: Our Second One-Day Field Visit

Our second one-day field visit as part of our B.Ed curriculum was a perfect
blend of learning and adventure. Excited for the day ahead, we set off at
8:30 AM from our college in a traveler, accompanied by our mentor teacher
Fousi Miss and our driver Syyaid, just like in our previous tour. Along the way,
our supervising teacher, Deepa Miss, joined us from her home. The
atmosphere inside the vehicle was vibrant—we danced, sang along to music,
and shared snacks we had packed.

Our first stop was at the home of our college mate, Sr. Jilsha, located in the
serene village of Pullikkanam, near Vagamon. We arrived at 10:15 AM,
greeted by breathtaking surroundings—a house nestled amidst lush
greenery, adorned with vibrant flowering plants. Sr. Jilsha’s family welcomed
us warmly, offering us a sumptuous feast that left us feeling deeply grateful.
The hospitality and the home-cooked meal made our visit truly special. After
expressing our heartfelt thanks, we set off for our next destination: the
Pullikkanam Tea Factory.

At 11:00 AM, we reached the Pullikkanam Tea Factory, a historic tea

manufacturing unit that plays a vital role in Kerala’s tea industry. Established
on April 22, 1954, and owned by Cochin-Malabar Estates and Industries
Limited, this factory has been a pillar of employment and economic support
in the region for decades.

The factory’s colonial-style architecture, with its white wooden panels,

sloping red-tiled roof, and vintage windows, reflected its rich history. Inside,
we observed the meticulous process of tea-making, which involves withering,
rolling, drying, and packaging. The factory follows both Orthodox and CTC
(Crush, Tear, Curl) methods to produce different types of tea.

One of the highlights was the trough system, a structured method of

processing fresh tea leaves efficiently. We also explored the factory’s outlet,
where we purchased freshly processed tea. Before leaving, we visited Sr.
Jilsha’s family shop, where we enjoyed some light snacks before heading to
our next destination.

By 12:45 PM, we arrived at Base Farm, Kolahalamedu, an important

research and training center under the Kerala Veterinary and Animal
Sciences University (KVASU). This 100-acre farm, surrounded by grasslands
and tea plantations, provides an ideal environment for dairy farming.
Originally established in 1963 under the Indo-Swiss Project, Madupatty, the
farm later came under the Kerala Livestock Development Board before being
transferred to Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) in 2000. When KVASU was
formed in 2011, the farm became a crucial part of its livestock research and
training programs.

Since we had special permission, we got an exclusive opportunity to meet Dr.

Kezia Mam, the research guide and supervisor, who gave us a detailed
explanation of cattle domestication and dairy farming practices. She
explained the entire life cycle of cows, starting with artificial insemination,
which is strictly practiced at the farm to maintain the quality of high-yield
breeds. She also described the step-by-step process of calf-rearing. When a
calf is born, it is fed colostrum, the thick, yellow first milk, which is rich in
proteins and antibodies essential for the newborn’s immunity. Water is not
given during the first week, and the calf is fed only milk. After 14 days, small
amounts of grass are introduced into its diet. As the calf grows, starter feeds
are provided based on its weight. A young female cow that has not given
birth is called a heifer. Heifers are raised until they reach six to eighteen
months of age. Once a heifer reaches eighteen months and shows heat
signs, it is artificially inseminated to ensure selective breeding. Natural
mating is not allowed at the farm to maintain the high-breed status of
Kerala’s cattle.

We learned that Kerala’s milk production average is 10.2 liters per cow, and
measures are being taken to gradually increase milk production while also
preserving local cattle breeds. The farm houses both Indian and foreign
breeds, selectively bred through artificial insemination to enhance milk
productivity. Cows are fed based on a scientifically structured diet to
maximize their milk yield. Their diet consists of fodder, roughage, and
concentrates to ensure proper nutrition. Fodder includes green grass,
roughage consists of hay, and concentrates are high-energy and protein-rich
feeds. To put this into perspective, six kilograms of green grass is equivalent
to one kilogram of hay. Even though the ingredients of the feed vary
depending on seasonal availability, the nutritional value remains consistent
through computer-assisted feed formulation. Farmers can purchase balanced
cattle feed mixtures, such as O.K., without needing to calculate nutrition
ratios themselves.

Additional farm practices include regular deworming and vaccinations, as

well as disbudding, which is the removal of horns to prevent injuries among
cows. Hand-milking is done twice daily, and the milk is supplied to Milma. A
healthy cow weighing three hundred kilograms can give birth to one calf per
year. On average, a cow requires thirty kilograms of grass daily and drinks
unlimited amounts of water according to its needs. Observing calves and
cows in their natural routine—grazing, resting, and even bathing—was a
heartwarming experience. We left the farm with deep knowledge about cattle
domestication, making it one of the most educational highlights of our tour.
After our enriching farm visit, we took a break for lunch at 2:20 PM. Fully
refreshed, we then headed to the Vagamon Pine Forest, reaching there by
3:00 PM.

The Vagamon Pine Forest is a stunning, man-made forest established during

the British era, covering six acres of sloping hills. As we descended the easy
downhill trail, we were surrounded by towering pine trees, their scent filling
the air. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting magical patterns
on the forest floor.

The beauty of this place was truly mesmerizing—an ideal setting for nature
walks and quiet reflection. Small souvenir shops lined the pathway, offering
handcrafted items and local delicacies. Though climbing back uphill was a bit
exhausting, the breathtaking scenery made it all worthwhile.

At 4:15 PM, we arrived at the Hill Garden, a beautifully maintained botanical

space featuring an impressive variety of flowering plants. Walking through
the garden was a delightful experience, with vibrant blossoms catching our
eyes at every turn. Some of us even bought plants to take home as a
memory of our visit.

Before departing, we treated ourselves to ice cream, enjoying the cool,

refreshing treat in the pleasant evening breeze.

As the day came to an end, we boarded our traveler for the return journey.
We shared snacks, memories, and laughter, reflecting on the educational
experiences and joyful moments of the day. Though tired, we felt fulfilled—
this tour had been a perfect blend of fun and learning, leaving us with
unforgettable memories and valuable knowledge.

Third Tour: Field Visit to home grown biotech - India's number one plant
nursery
Our visit to Homegrown Biotech, was an enlightening experience that
provided us with a deep understanding of exotic fruit cultivation and
advanced plant biotechnology. Our journey began at 1:45 PM from college in
an Innova car, with a different driver from our previous tours. Accompanying
us was our supervising teacher, Deepa Miss, who guided us throughout the
trip. Initially, we took a rugged and uneven road filled with pits, rocks, and
pebbles, making our approach feel like an adventurous trek. This path led us
to the backside of the nursery, where we briefly lost our way. However, after
contacting the office, we received the correct directions and rerouted
through the Kanjirappally-Erumely road, spotting the Homegrown Biotech
board along the way. From there, it was a 350-meter drive to the main
entrance, and we finally arrived at our destination at 2 PM.

The first sight of the nursery was breathtaking. It resembled a botanical

garden, with lush green meadows and organized greenhouses spread across
the vast landscape. Situated on 100 acres of fertile land along the
Manimalayar River in Vizhikkathod, Kanjirappally, Kerala, Homegrown
Biotech is recognized as the largest plant production nursery in India. The
nursery is renowned for its research and large-scale cultivation of exotic
tropical fruit trees, including Rambutan, Mangosteen, Pulasan, Durian,
Jackfruit (Daeng Suriya, Vietnam Super Early, J33, Seedless Jack), Mango
Chakkara, Longan, Achachairu, Abiu, Milk Fruit, and Kepel. Their focus is on
developing fruit trees that are high-yielding, pest-resistant, and well-suited
for Indian climates, ensuring longevity, ease of maintenance, and better crop
production.

The vision of Homegrown Biotech is to lead Indian farmers toward profitable

tropical fruit farming through modern plant biotechnology. Their mission
revolves around sourcing exotic plants from around the world, collaborating
with research institutions, developing new fruit varieties, and promoting best
farming practices. They cater to three major customer categories:
homesteads (home gardeners cultivating exotic fruit trees), farmers and
nurseries (providing high-quality plants and training), and institutions
(supporting green initiatives for various organizations). Their marketing
network includes 800 resellers across Kerala, with exclusive depots in
Thiruvalla, Kanjirappally, and Adimali.

Homegrown Biotech was founded three decades ago by members of the

Kondooparampil family, who have a long history of farming expertise. The
leadership team includes Renny Jacob, Jose Jacob, and Jojo Joseph, each
bringing unique skills and experience to the nursery’s operations. Renny
Jacob, the Group Chairman, is a Chartered Accountant and an experienced
agribusiness entrepreneur. He also leads India Cocoa Group, a major supplier
of cocoa beans to Cadbury India for over 30 years. He oversees the finance,
administration, and IT systems of the nursery. Jose Jacob, the Managing
Director, has been leading Homegrown Biotech for over two decades with a
passion for exotic fruit farming. He has established three research farms to
develop improved horticultural practices and introduce new crops to Indian
agriculture. Jojo Joseph, the Director, specializes in land and property
development, ensuring the growth and sustainability of Homegrown
Biotech’s infrastructure.

A key highlight of Homegrown Biotech is its extensive Research &

Development initiatives aimed at improving tropical fruit trees sourced from
Southeast Asia, South America, and other tropical regions. Their research
focuses on developing high-yield, pest-resistant plant varieties while
maintaining disease-free progeny orchards for top-quality nursery
production. They also focus on composting and soil conditioning, producing
1,200 metric tonnes of enriched compost annually. The use of Trichoderma
bio-fungicide, ICAR-certified Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC, Bio NPK), and
standardized potting media ensures healthy plant growth and sustainable
orchards. They also create soilless media for export and long-distance
transport, helping farmers and plant enthusiasts across regions.

As part of our field visit, we had the opportunity to meet Dr. Teena, a
research associate and lab technician, who provided us with a detailed
explanation of the systematic working of the nursery. She guided us through
the various stages of plant cultivation, starting from seed selection and
preparation of the potting mix to the grafting techniques used for plant
propagation. She explained the process of rootstock and scion preparation,
where the rootstock forms the root system along with a portion of the stem,
onto which the fruit-bearing or flowering part, known as the scion, is
attached. This technique is used to enhance growth and improve fruit quality.
We also learned about different types of grow bags and air pots, as well as
various fruit trees and their specialties. She described how fruits develop and
the different irrigation methods implemented in the nursery.

During our exploration, we observed the irrigation process using a sprinkler

system. Dr. Teena explained the importance of watering plants during the hot
afternoon to reduce heat stress. She highlighted that irrigation follows a
strict schedule and is primarily done through sprinkler and drip irrigation
systems, while manual watering is used for plants kept inside covered areas
to ensure proper moisture levels.

As we moved further, Dr. Teena introduced us to durian, famously known as

the "king of fruits." This fruit is notorious for its strong and distinctive aroma,
which is attributed to a complex mix of volatile compounds. The durian tree
can grow to an impressive height of 40 to 50 meters, making it a challenging
fruit to harvest. Due to its large size and heavy weight, a falling durian poses
a serious risk of injury, making it dangerous for those working near the trees.
The fruit tends to ripen and fall mostly during the late afternoon and
evening, a characteristic that aids in its natural seed dispersal.

She then guided us through different sections of fruit trees and elaborated on
their unique characteristics. Among them, the avocado tree stood out for its
classification into tropical and subtropical varieties. She explained that for
our climate, the tropical variety is more suitable. Avocado plants are also
categorized into A-type and B-type flowers, and planting both types together
is ideal for commercial cultivation as it enhances fruit yield. The litchi tree
was another remarkable plant, which requires lower night temperatures to
flower successfully.

Another fascinating plant we encountered was the Abiu tree, an evergreen

species native to the Amazon rainforest. The Abiu tree grows up to ten
meters tall, forming a broad and rounded crown. Its small, oval-shaped fruits
turn yellow when ripe and have a smooth, thin skin. The inner pulp is creamy
and sweet, resembling the flavor of tender coconut.
Moving along, we came across a large well that was securely fitted with iron
safeguards. The well is a major source of water for the nursery, and we
noticed that water from the nearby Manimalayar River cascades into the well
like a small waterfall. The presence of the river ensures a continuous and
reliable water supply, which is essential for the large-scale cultivation of
plants in the nursery.

Dr. Teena then introduced us to the milk fruit tree and even plucked a fruit
that was expected to ripen in the next two to three days. The tree can grow
up to fifteen to twenty meters tall, with a broad, rounded crown and a
straight, smooth trunk. The bark is grayish-brown, becoming rougher as the
tree ages. Its leaves are dark green, elliptical, and leathery, arranged in an
opposite pattern along the branches. The milk fruit itself is small, round, or
oval, typically about two to three inches in diameter. Its thin and smooth skin
varies in color from green to purple, depending on its stage of ripeness.
When fully ripe, the fruit becomes soft and has a slightly sweet, milky flavor
with a creamy pulp.

As we continued our tour, we visited the compost production unit and

observed the different stages of compost formation. The compost is prepared
using green waste, such as plant trimmings, along with organic manure
derived from cow dung, pig manure, and goat droppings. These organic
materials enrich the soil and improve its fertility, mimicking the natural
nutrient content found in forest soil. The process begins with biological green
waste, which is finely chopped to increase its surface area for decomposition.
The cut waste is placed in prepared compost beds, where cow dung mixed
with water is sprinkled to accelerate microbial activity. Aeration machines are
used weekly to enhance the breakdown of organic matter, making the
process faster and more efficient compared to conventional composting
methods. While traditional composting can take several months, this method
allows compost to form within just thirty to forty-five days. During the final
stage, microbial activity causes the temperature to rise up to eighty degrees
Celsius, ensuring the complete breakdown of organic material. The compost
eventually takes on a soil-like texture with an earthy smell, indicating that it
is fully matured and ready for use.
Dr. Teena explained the differences between trees grown in the ground and
those cultivated in pots. Trees planted directly in the ground grow more
freely, with thicker leaves and stronger root systems. In contrast, trees grown
in pots experience higher levels of stress, which prompts them to produce
more fruit as a survival mechanism. This knowledge is particularly useful for
commercial growers seeking to maximize yield in limited space.

She also introduced us to parthenocarpy, a fascinating phenomenon where

plants produce fruit without fertilization. In such cases, the fruit develops
without seeds, making it highly desirable for commercial cultivation. Some
plants exhibit natural parthenocarpy, while in others, it can be induced using
horticultural techniques such as grafting or hormone application.

As we proceeded further, we observed the bag-filling process used for

planting new saplings. The soil used in this process is sourced externally and
carefully filtered using a strainer machine to remove pebbles and large
particles. The filtered soil is then layered with compost before being packed
into planting bags. As the plants grow, they are transferred to larger bags in
a process known as re-bagging to provide sufficient space for root expansion.

Dr. Teena also elaborated on various plant propagation techniques. Grafting

is a widely used method where a scion, which is a stem or branch from one
plant, is carefully attached to a rootstock. The two are bound together using
tape or wax, allowing them to heal and grow as a single plant. Another
technique, known as budding, involves inserting a single bud from one plant
into a small T-shaped cut on the rootstock. This method is particularly useful
for plants that are difficult to graft using traditional methods. Air layering, on
the other hand, is a propagation technique that encourages root
development on a section of stem while it is still attached to the parent
plant. The selected stem is wrapped in moist material, such as sphagnum
moss or coconut coir, creating a humid environment that promotes root
growth. Once roots are well-developed, the stem is cut and potted separately
as a new plant.

The explanations continued as we walked across different fields and sections

of the nursery. The afternoon sun was intense, and we felt a bit exhausted,
but the sight of lush greenery and fruit-laden trees kept us captivated. After
completing our field tour, we returned to the starting point, where we were
served a chilled drink made from bush orange and seedless lemon. The
refreshing taste of the drink instantly lifted our spirits.

Before concluding our visit, we explored the sales section, where some of us
purchased plant saplings after checking the price cards. Payments were
processed smoothly, and we received nursery-themed calendars along with a
product catalog booklet. The nursery workers assisted in carefully packing
and loading the purchased plants into our vehicle, even providing extra
covers for safe transportation.

At 3:45 PM, we departed from the nursery, bringing an end to an enriching

and enjoyable experience. Along the way, some of us got down for
convenience. The visit was not only educational but also deeply inspiring,
offering valuable insights into sustainable agriculture and advanced
horticultural techniques.

The study tour and field visits enriched our learning by providing real-world
experiences beyond the classroom. Exploring Thekkady, Wagamon base
farm, and Home Grown Biotech deepened our understanding of nature,
agriculture, and science. The journey was both educational and enjoyable,
enhancing teamwork and practical knowledge.

Budget

Total fee collected = 41,300

Emergency fee = 700

--------------------------------------------
Transportation fee = 17,000

Entry fee = 18,715

Food cost = 4,983

Parking fee = 300

First aid and

Miscellaneous = 467

expense

--------------------------------------------

Total expense = 41,465

Balance = 535

Chapter 6: Evaluation

The study tour and field visits were highly enriching, providing valuable
learning experiences beyond theoretical knowledge. Visiting Thekkady
allowed us to explore its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, enhancing our
appreciation for nature. The trip to Wagamon and Pullikkanam Tea Factory
provided insights into agriculture and farming techniques, making it a
practical learning experience.

Home Grown Biotech was particularly informative, as we gained firsthand

knowledge of plant propagation, grafting, irrigation methods, and organic
farming. The detailed explanations by experts, especially Dr. Teena,
deepened our understanding of modern nursery practices and plant science.
The food arrangements, though good, were relatively expensive. While the
quality in some restaurants was satisfactory, a more budget-friendly
approach could have been considered.

Time management was moderate throughout the tour. While we were able to
cover all planned activities, some delays occurred, slightly affecting the
overall flow of the trip. A more structured schedule would help in better time
management.

Minor challenges such as fatigue and travel constraints also emerged.

However, despite these small hurdles, the study tour and field visits
successfully provided valuable experiences. The combination of exposure to
biodiversity, scientific advancements, and cultural significance made it a
meaningful journey. Improvements in cost management and time efficiency
could enhance similar programs in the future.

Overall, the experience was smooth, well-organized, and highly beneficial.

The structured approach, committee coordination, and timely execution
made the tour effective. It not only strengthened our subject knowledge but
also improved our teamwork, adaptability, and organizational skills, making
it a truly memorable and educational journey.

Chapter 7: Suggestions

1. Better Time Management – A more structured schedule with buffer

time for unexpected delays can help improve efficiency.
 2. Budget-Friendly Food Options – Choosing affordable yet quality
restaurants can help reduce overall expenses.

3. More Comfortable Travel Arrangements – Ensuring comfortable seating

and breaks during long journeys can help reduce fatigue.

4. Pre-Visit Orientation – A brief session before the tour to familiarize

students with key aspects of each location could enhance learning
outcomes.

5. Enhanced Coordination Among Committees – Better communication

among different committees can help streamline responsibilities and
improve execution.

6. More Hands-On Activities – Including interactive sessions or

demonstrations at field visit locations can make learning more
engaging.

7. Alternative Tour Destinations – Exploring additional destinations with

diverse educational value can offer a broader learning experience.

Conclusion
Educational tours and field visits play a crucial role in bridging the gap
between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. They provide
firsthand exposure to real-world applications, making learning more
engaging and impactful. Beyond academics, such experiences enhance
teamwork, adaptability, and organizational skills, shaping students into well-
rounded individuals.

The study tour and field visits were highly enriching, offering valuable
insights into biodiversity, agriculture, and scientific advancements. The visit
to Thekkady provided an opportunity to appreciate nature and wildlife, while
Wagamon and Pullikkanam Tea Factory helped us understand different
farming and plantation techniques. The Home Grown Biotech visit was
particularly informative, as we learned about plant propagation, irrigation
systems, and modern nursery management. Despite minor challenges like
time management and food expenses, the overall experience was smooth,
well-organized, and highly beneficial. This journey not only deepened our
subject knowledge but also made for an enjoyable and memorable learning
experience.

As Jawaharlal Nehru once said, “We live in a wonderful world that is full of
beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can
have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” Educational tours and field
visits allow us to explore the world beyond textbooks, opening our minds to
new experiences, knowledge, and perspectives. These journeys not only
enhance our understanding but also instill a sense of curiosity and
appreciation for the world around us. Every trip is a step toward growth,
learning, and discovery, making education a truly transformative experience.