Pillai Business School Industrial Visit to Pune and Mahabaleshwar

Day 1: Pune Industrial Visit

The journey commenced on 21st March 2024, as students assembled at the main gate of Pillai Business School at 7:00 a.m. for departure. Departure ensued at 7:30 a.m. towards Pune via Mumbai Pune Expressway. A breakfast halt was made near Khalapur where students were provided with nourishing meals.

Upon reaching Pune, students visited Parag Milk Foods, a renowned cheese factory. Here, they were presented with a detailed overview of the products manufactured by Parag Milk Foods, which included ghee, milk, cheese, and various other dairy products. The students were given insights into the production process and were shown presentations showcasing the variety of items produced.

Afterwards, students proceeded to have lunch at Ravikiran Hotel in Pune. Following lunch, they revisited the cheese factory for a more in-depth session on different types of cheese produced, such as mozzarella, cheese cubes, and cheese slices. The mentor from the company provided valuable information about the production process, including temperature requirements and storage guidelines for each type of cheese.

Additionally, students were treated to a presentation where they were provided with samples of various cheese products, including pizza slices, chips with sauce, cheese cubes, and different flavoured cheeses. Parag Milk Foods and Farms generously provided gift hampers to the students, which included Gowardhan ghee, processed flavoured milk, and cheese cubes.

After the cheese factory tour, students visited a dairy farm known as “Great People Great Cows,” where they witnessed a two-day-old calf and learned about calf rearing practices. They were provided with details such as the calf’s date of birth, identity number, and parent information.

Subsequently, the students visited the World Pride of Cows at “Bhagya Laxmi Dairy Farm”, where they gained insights into breeding and maintenance practices of cows imported from Denmark. Emphasis was placed on factors such as temperature, nutrition, and commitment to quality milk production. The efficiency and hygiene standards of milk extraction were highlighted during the tour.

Following the industrial visits, students indulged in a tasting session of milk before concluding the day’s activities. Later, they proceeded towards Mahabaleshwar and checked into Millennium Park Panchgani, where they enjoyed dinner and rested for the night.

Day 2 – Mahabaleshwar (Madhuban Honey Park)

On the second day of their educational excursion, the students began their day with a hearty breakfast at Millennium Park, preparing them for an enlightening journey ahead. With spirits high, they embarked on a visit to a Madhuban Honey Park, eagerly anticipating an immersive experience. At the factory, a knowledgeable guide awaited, ready to unveil the intricate world of honey bees and their prized product, honey. The guide’s informative session enlightened the students about the fascinating lives of bees and the process of honey production. Moreover, students were granted a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the intricate honeycomb structures crafted by these industrious insects, deepening their appreciation for the natural world.

Following the mesmerizing encounter with honey bees, the tour progressed to the inner workings of the factory, where state-of-the-art machinery awaited. Here, students witnessed the fascinating process of converting beeswax into various products, showcasing the intersection of nature and technology. The machinery hummed with activity, illustrating the efficient production methods employed in modern industry. This immersive experience offered students valuable insights into the practical applications of scientific knowledge and technological innovation in the manufacturing sector.

As the day unfolded, fatigue began to set in among the students, prompting a well-deserved break to rejuvenate their spirits. Gathered together, they indulged in refreshing lemonade and coconut water, replenishing their energy for the adventures that lay ahead. This brief respite provided a moment of relaxation and camaraderie, fostering bonds among the group amidst their shared experiences. With renewed Vigor, the students embarked on the next leg of their journey, eager to continue their exploration of the wonders that awaited them.

Returning to Millennium Park Hotel for a sumptuous lunch, the students relished the opportunity to refuel and reflect on the day’s discoveries. Amidst lively conversation and laughter, they savoured delicious meals, nourishing both body and mind. The hotel provided a welcoming sanctuary, offering comfort and hospitality to weary travellers seeking respite from their adventures. Energized and invigorated, the students eagerly anticipated the final highlight of the day: a visit to Sunset Point.

Arriving at Sunset Point, the students were greeted by a breathtaking panorama, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. Nature’s grandeur unfolded before their eyes, casting a spell of wonder and awe upon the gathered crowd. Against the backdrop of the picturesque landscape, the students revelled in the beauty of the moment, capturing memories that would last a lifetime. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with a palette of vibrant colours, the students reflected on the profound beauty and harmony of the natural world. With hearts full and minds enriched, they bid farewell to Sunset Point, concluding a day filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences.

Day 3 – Savitri point and Mapro gadren

After the enlightening visit to the Madhuban Honey Park, the group ventured to Savitri Point, braving the hot and sunny weather. Here, they were treated to breathtaking scenic views while the guide shared captivating tales of the historical significance of the place, particularly its connection to Shivaji Maharaj and his warriors. The students absorbed the rich history and marvelled at the beauty surrounding them. Next, they were taken to Echo Point, where they experienced the phenomenon of sound echoing against the mountainsides. It was a memorable moment as they shouted and listened to their voices reverberating through the landscape.

As the day progressed, fatigue started to set in, prompting a short break for refreshments. Lemonade and coconut water provided much-needed rejuvenation before the students continued their adventure. After regaining their energy, they made their way back to Millennium Park Hotel for a fulfilling lunch. Replenished and ready for more exploration, the group proceeded to Mapro Garden, where they indulged in sampling various strawberry products. The picturesque surroundings of the garden also served as the perfect backdrop for capturing memorable moments, as students clicked away, documenting their experiences.

Wrapping up their visit to Mapro Garden, the students bid farewell to the scenic locale and began their journey back to Mumbai. Along the way, they made a brief stop near Pune for a bio break and some snacks, providing a brief respite before their return to college. Reflecting on the day’s events, the excursion proved to be a perfect blend of education, adventure, and relaxation, leaving the students with cherished memories and newfound knowledge to carry forward.

Learning Outcomes

1. Industry Exposure: Students gained firsthand exposure to diverse industries including dairy farming, honey production, and tourism, broadening their understanding of various sectors within the economy.
2. Practical Knowledge: Through guided tours and interactive sessions, students acquired practical knowledge about the operations and processes involved in dairy farming, honey extraction, and tourist attractions, enhancing their theoretical understanding with real-world applications.
3. Environmental Awareness: Visits to scenic locations like Savitri Point and Mapro Garden allowed students to appreciate the ecological significance of these sites, fostering a sense of environmental consciousness and responsibility.
4. Teamwork and Collaboration: Engaging in group activities and discussions during the industrial visit promoted teamwork and collaboration among students, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and cooperation in achieving common goals.
5. Cultural Enrichment: Interacting with local experts and experiencing the cultural nuances of different regions enriched students’ cultural awareness and sensitivity, preparing them for global professional environments with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
6. Personal Development: The experiential learning opportunities provided during the visit encouraged personal growth and development, instilling qualities such as adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills in students as they navigated through various challenges and experiences.
7. Networking Opportunities: Interactions with industry professionals and experts during the visit facilitated networking opportunities for students, potentially opening doors for internships, mentorships, and future career prospects.
8. Reflective Learning: Post-visit reflections and discussions encouraged students to critically analyse their experiences, identify key takeaways, and apply newfound knowledge and insights to their academic and professional endeavours, promoting a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement.

Conclusion

The three-day experiential learning industrial visit provided PGDM students from Pillai Business School with valuable insights into diverse industries, ranging from dairy farming to honey production and tourism. Through practical exposure and interactive sessions, students not only enhanced their understanding of real-world operations but also fostered teamwork and camaraderie. Such initiatives serve as catalysts for holistic learning and professional development, aligning with the educational objectives of Pillai Business School.

This detailed report encapsulates the highlights of the industrial visit undertaken by PGDM students, emphasizing the educational value and experiential learning opportunities afforded by the excursion.