RIMT University Students Visit Apiculture Department of the PAU

In a significant step towards enhancing practical knowledge and hands-on experience, students from the B.Sc. Agriculture program participating in the RAWE (Rural Agriculture Work Experience) course, along with peers from B.Sc. Biotechnology and B.Sc. Nutrition and Dietetics, from the RIMT University, recently visited the Apiculture Unit of the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU). The visit was led by Dr Pradeep Kumar Chunneja, Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, accompanied by Dr Pallavi Ghosh, Head of the Department, and Assistant Professor Dr Sapna.

The primary objective of the visit was to provide students with an in-depth understanding of apiculture, an area that is gaining prominence in sustainable agriculture and food production. Upon arrival, students were warmly welcomed by the faculty at PAU, who introduced them to various species of bees, including honey bees and other pollinators. They explored the essential equipment and machinery used in beekeeping, learning about its significance in providing livelihood, and in promoting biodiversity and enhancing agricultural yields. PAU’s Apiary has an historical value as it is from where the highly productive Italian honey bees were released in 1976.

A highlight of the visit was the hands-on practical session, where students participated in learning the grafting of larvae for mass queen bee rearing and the preparation of artificial queen cell cups. These techniques are fundamental in bee breeding and colony management, allowing students to gain practical skills that will benefit their future careers in agriculture and biotechnology. The students were also exposed to production technologies for various hive products and diseases diagnostics. Besides honey bees, the students had the opportunities to get learning about the stingless bee colonies.

The day was further enriched by a visit to the Heritage Museum of the PAU, where students immersed themselves in the cultural heritage of the Punjab. This segment of the visit was particularly enlightening, as it provided insights into the traditional practices and history of the region, fostering a deeper appreciation for local agricultural and rural customs.

Reflecting on the visit, Dr Pradeep Kumar Chunneja emphasized the importance of integrating theoretical knowledge with skill-enhancement and practical applications. He stated, “Experiential learning is crucial in agricultural education”.

This visit exemplifies RIMT University’s ongoing commitment to providing students with valuable experiences that prepare them for the challenges of the agricultural industry. The knowledge gained from this excursion will undoubtedly contribute to their academic growth and professional development.