The 2021-24 batch from the School of Contemporary Knowledge Systems went on an industrial visit from 26th to 30th October 2023 to study the production processes at the Benchmark Tea factory and a chocolate factory in Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
At the tea factory, they got to witness the entire journey—from the plucking of tea leaves to the processing and packaging. The key steps included plucking, withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, sorting, and packaging. In the end, they also got to sample some freshly brewed tea.
At the chocolate factory, they were explained the last stages of the chocolate manufacturing process including moulding and packaging. The visit highlighted the precision and care required to produce high-quality chocolates.
The students also engaged in a variety of thrilling adventure activities like giant swing in Karapuzha Dam, Wayanad and zipline, rock climbing and stunt jumping in Ooty. They also visited other places like Edakkal cave and Meenumutti waterfalls in Wayanad and Kuruwadeep, Pine Forest and Ooty Lake in Ooty.
Through this industrial visit, students gained a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing industries. It was an eye-opening and enriching experience for the students which emphasized learning about the importance of sustainable and responsible sourcing during the visit.
The group was led by faculty from the School of CKS, Dr. Vinod R. R. and Ms. Aswathi M. M.
Report by Devika Krishnan, B.Com. (second year)