Industrial Visit to ICAR-Directorate of Mushroom Research(DMR), Solan & Mohan Meakin Brewery, Solan

On 17th–18th March 2026, a two-day industrial visit to Solan, Himachal Pradesh, was organized for students of B.Sc. Biotechnology by the Department of Biotechnology, CCT Landran. The students were accompanied by facultt members Dr. Abhinoy Kishore, Dr. Ramandeep Kaur, and Dr. Diksha.

On the first day, students visited the Directorate of Mushroom Research, Solan, a premier institute dedicated to mushroom biotechnology. They explored advanced techniques such as spawn production, compost formulation, and controlled environmental systems used for large-scale cultivation. The visit highlighted the role of microbial activity, substrate optimization, and sterile conditions in ensuring high-yield and contamination-free production, offering insights into sustainable biotechnology practices.

On the second day, the group visited Mohan Meakin Brewery, one of India’s oldest breweries, where students observed the technological aspects of industrial fermentation. They gained detailed exposure to automated brewing systems, including mashing units, fermentation tanks, temperature-controlled bioreactors, and filtration systems. The role of yeast as a biocatalyst was demonstrated in controlled fermentation processes, emphasizing parameters such as pH, temperature, and oxygen levels. Students also learned about quality assurance technologies, including microbial testing, chemical analysis, and real-time monitoring systems used to maintain product consistency. The integration of process control, industrial-scale fermentation technology, and hygiene protocols provided a clear understanding of how biotechnology is applied in large-scale beverage production.

Overall, the visit was highly enriching, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial biotechnology applications. It enabled students to understand how modern technologies and bioprocessing techniques are utilized in real-world industrial settings.