Building on the success of last year’s inaugural Bharat Darshan Study Tour, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is once again set to provide an enriching experience for its young achievers. This year, 15 public school students, who excelled in the 5th and 8th Grade Scholarship Exams conducted by the state government in 2023-24, have been selected for this transformative journey.

The students, recognised for their exceptional district-level rankings and scholarship achievements, have embarked on a week-long tour from December 2 to December 8, travelling to Bangalore, Mysore, Ooty and Coimbatore. The tour aims to offer a unique blend of academic, cultural and historical exposure, shaping the participants' perspectives and fostering holistic growth.

Last year’s Bharat Darshan Study Tour received widespread acclaim from students, parents and educators, who hailed it as a milestone initiative blending education with real-world experiences. Inspired by its impact, PCMC has continued this tradition, ensuring that more young scholars benefit from such opportunities.

This year’s itinerary is carefully curated to include visits to prestigious academic institutions, such as ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and the Indian Institute of Science. The students will engage with scientists, delve into the realms of space exploration and gain insights into cutting-edge research. The trip will also feature explorations of cultural and historical landmarks, ensuring a balance between academic enrichment and cultural immersion.

The students will be accompanied by a dedicated team of teachers who played a crucial role in preparing them for the scholarship exams, ensuring guidance and mentorship throughout the journey.

Speaking about the initiative, Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh said, “The Bharat Darshan Study Tour is proof of PCMC’s commitment to recognising and rewarding academic excellence. We believe that such experiences are transformative, broadening the horizons of our young scholars and inspiring them to dream big. We endeavour to ensure that every child in PCMC’s public schools receives not just quality education but also opportunities that shape their future.”

Additional Commissioner Pradip Jambhale-Patil echoed this sentiment, stating, “This initiative reflects our focus on fostering holistic development in public school students. By providing them with exposure to academic, cultural and scientific excellence, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.”

Assistant Commissioner Vijay Thorat added, “We are proud to support these talented students as they embark on this incredible journey. Their achievements in the scholarship exams are commendable, and this tour is a fitting way to celebrate their hard work and dedication.”