Bonjour! As my one-month educational journey through France under the DEFIAA program draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching experiences and profound insights gained during my time in this captivating country. From the vibrant streets of Toulouse to the picturesque countryside landscapes of Caixas, each moment has been a lesson in culture, history, and language. Join me as I reflect on the highlights of my unforgettable adventure with a cup of Espresso.

Initially we have integration week and french language classes. It's the most interesting and interactive day with new minds, new cultures and new passions. Later I attended classes on Biology, food processing, English, French, Agronomy, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Economics. I have attended various practical sessions including food processing and soil analysis. I visited farmers farm, markets, Industries and laboratories, which gave me an idea about the Production system, its marketing, government support and any correction for betterment. I have visited labs of the University of Perpignan, which is one of the renowned Universities of France. I have visited an organic farmer growing Apricot, peach and almond in his 10ha field. I have visited Montesquieu des Alberis to gain information on forest fire prevention. I have seen the distillation unit, where rosemary distillation was going on. I got the opportunity to visit the institute farm, where l learned about specific crops and vegetables of this region and its production practices both under field conditions and under green houses. I have visited the biodiversity aquarium and research centre at Banyuls-sur-mer, where I learned about marine biodiversity, its conservation practices along with current research work on marine life. I was lucky enough to attend the open-door program (JPO), where I got the opportunity to interact with young minds and their parents who want to pursue their career in agriculture.
I had visited various tourist places like Toulouse, Collioure, Perpignan, Port bendre, Le site de paulilles, fort de bellagrade and Saint cyprien. I got the opportunity to visit the home of our friends and teachers like Ludivine, Aline, Maxim, Mr Christophe Groell,Mrs. Celine and Mrs M.B. Verdy, whose warmth and affection I will always cherish in my life.
During my stay I felt there are some stereotypical thoughts about India still prevailing which can be easily taken away with further interactions and cultural exchange. At the end, Thanking DEFIAA, French ministry of Agriculture, GBPUAT Pantnagar, Agricampus 66 Theza, Mr. Christopher groell, Mrs. Chantal desprats and Dr. H. J. Shiva prasad for this programme and want to express my profound gratitude to everyone who made this a once in a lifetime opportunity to me and make it a success. Ending with a quotation; as follows
वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् (The World Is One Family)! जननी जन्मभूमिश्च स्वर्गादपि गरीयसी!!