Educational tours always have a major educational element. The importance of such tours includes giving students the chance to build closer bonds with their classmates, experiencing new environments and enjoy a day away from the classroom. Students on Educational trips can often learn while having fun in a more informal environment. With this perspective an educational trip was organized by School of Biosciences, IMS Ghaizabad, University Courses Campus to Chandigarh, Mohali, Shimla and Kufri from January 24, 2019 to January 28, 2019. Total 47 students participated along with Dr. Abha Vashistha, Prof. Kapil Sharma, Dr. Umesh Kumar and Er. Akanksha Jain.

On the first day of the trip, students visited Central Sophisticated Instrument Cell (CSIC) of Postgratuate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh and observed different instruments and facilities available in CSIC in two batches along with CSIC faculties and technicians. The demonstration of Flow Cytometery (FACS),a technology that is used to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of particles in a fluid as it passes through at least one laser was performed by Sr. Technician Mrs. Bhupender Kaur followed by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) demonstration, a technique in analytical chemistry used to separate, identify, and quantify each component in a mixture. It relies on pumps to pass a pressurized liquid solvent containing the sample mixture through a column filled with a solid adsorbent material under the supervision of Mrs. Tanuja in CSIC.

Mrs. Meenakshi showed the facility of MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry, an analytical technique in which samples are ionized into charged molecules and ratio of their mass-to-charge can be measured. Mrs. Paayal had described about the different types of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) through various type of amplification techniques viz. Conventional PCR, Real Time PCR and their applications. The Main Attraction of the facility demo was Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), a type of electron microscope that produces images of a sample by scanning the surface with a focused beam of electrons. The electrons interact with atoms in the sample, producing various signals that contain information about the surface topography and composition of the sample. This demo was lead by Senior Technician Shri Virender Singh.

We are very thankful to Prof. Arunaloke Chakravarty, Incharge of CSIC for this opportunity for our students. The whole visit to CSIC was managed by Dr. Ashok Kumar Yadav, Assistant Professor, Department of Experimental Medicine & Biotechnology, PGIMER and Dr. Subodh Yadav along with Dr. Ashutosh, Senior Demonstrator, Central Sophisticated Instrument Cell CSIC, PGIMER, Chandigarh. In the second half, we approached to Verka Dairy in Mohali, Punjab, where all the aspiring Biosciences students were able to have exposure of technical area of Pasteurization of the raw milk and the process of milk adulteration for quality control. Verka Dairy Mohali technical team led by Mr. Gill, Senior Manager provided the opportunity to see the sophisticated area of milk plant where most of the processes were control by computer systems. He told that the whole plant works for 24X7 in specific manner to give better quality milk product. Finally students were gathered for group photograph along with faculties and staff. We are very thankful to Mr. M.S. Brar Managing Director, Verka Dairy for giving opportunity to visit this plant.

The industrial interaction was followed by an excursion trip to Shimla and Kufri. Being a popular hill resort, Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh is on the top of the list of many travelers, because of easy accessibility, developed infrastructure, attractive tourist spots and the salubrious climate. It has every quality that makes it a best contender for a hassle free tour in India. Colonial architecture plays an important role in attracting tourists to Shimla. Gaiety Theatre is one of the best examples of it, been an epitome of fine British architecture. Students visited City Museum, amphitheatre and church, they had a well guided tour. The view from the Viceroy's Box was breath taking, Students also enjoyed the short trek to Jakhoo temple, perched on a hill that elevates 2455m above sea level, this Hanuman temple is a landmark for Shimla. It offers a spectacular view of Shivalik Ranges and the town of Sanjauli. Another highlight that adds to the reason of visiting here is the 108m tall statue of Lord Hanuman.

Students shopped for their family from Lakkar Bazaar, a wood market in Shimla. Popular for its wood items like walking sticks and decorative articles, the place had everything from a small wooden key ring to huge home decor items. Students accompanied by faculty had a great time at Shimla. Somewhere around 16 kms from Shimla is Kufri. Apart from its scenic landscape and views the place is known for offering yak ride. The students enjoyed adventure activities such as Rock climbing, Rappelling, Bunzzy jumping, Swing, Double Rope Bridge and above all the snow fall. Comprehensive sightseeing and excursion were the main attractions of the trip. The salubrious climate of Himachal rejuvenated them thoroughly.

This educational tour offers an opportunity for total immersion in the natural environment and social settings. On such excursions, the students practice their skills and critical thinking abilities outside of the controlled institutional setting. This tour indeed provides a learn real-world lessons and life time cherished memories. Students and faculties of School of Biosciences, IMS Ghaizabad, University Courses Campus will always be grateful to the Director Dr. Sapna Rakesh and the Managemt of the Institution for providing us this opportunity.