DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY
The History Department at B.D. College, Patna, distinguishes itself through its deep connection to the living history of
Bihar. Its greatest strength lies in its ability to use the region's immense heritage—from the ruins of Nalanda and
Vikramshila to the monuments of the medieval period and the sites of the Indian independence movement—as an extended
classroom. The department goes beyond rote learning, encouraging students to engage in critical debate, interpret
primary sources, and understand the socio-economic and cultural forces that have shaped societies. This approach fosters
a nuanced perspective and develops skills in research and communication that are highly valued in diverse fields such as
civil services, museology, archaeology, journalism, law, and education. The department doesn't just teach history; it
teaches how to think historically.
The college is committed to providing a rigorous academic
foundation in the discipline of History. The department offers a structured program covering the broad sweep of
historical events, themes, and historiography. With a qualified faculty and access to a well-stocked library, the
department promotes an environment of scholarly inquiry and critical analysis. The program is designed to develop a deep
understanding of the past and to equip students with the analytical and interpretive skills necessary for successful
careers in academia, research, public administration, and other professional domains.
INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT
The Department of History at Bhuwaneshwari Dayal (B.D.) College, Mithapur, Patna is a vital academic unit
dedicated to
the study and preservation of historical knowledge, with a special emphasis on the rich cultural and political
heritage
of Bihar and India. The department’s infrastructure is designed to support a holistic learning experience,
blending
traditional scholarly methods with modern technological tools. It aligns with the academic standards set by the
University Grants Commission (UGC), the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), and
the Patliputra University Patna.
1. Academic and Research Facilities
The department is housed in a spacious wing of the college, featuring smart classrooms equipped with
projectors,
audio-visual systems, and interactive whiteboards. These facilities enable dynamic teaching methodologies,
including
virtual tours of historical sites, documentary screenings, and guest lectures via video conferencing. The
departmental
library is a cornerstone of its infrastructure, boasting a curated collection of over 2,000
books, including
rare
manuscripts, primary sources, and publications on regional history, such as the ancient kingdoms of Magadha and
the
Mauryan Empire. Subscriptions to leading journals like The Indian Historical Review and Proceedings of the
Indian
History Congress provide students and faculty access to cutting-edge research.
2. Digital and Technological Resources
To bridge the gap between traditional historiography and digital humanities, the department maintains a
dedicated
computer lab with high-speed internet connectivity. Software for data analysis, geographic information
systems
(GIS),
and digital archiving supports research projects on topics like trade routes, settlement patterns, and cultural
diffusion. Access to online databases such as JSTOR, Project MUSE, and the Digital Library of India
allows
students to
explore digitized archives, manuscripts, and archaeological reports. The department also utilizes a Learning
Management
System (LMS) for distributing study materials, assignments, and feedback.
3. Museum and Archival Center
A unique feature of the department is its historical museum and archival center, which houses artifacts,
coins,
inscriptions, and replicas from various periods of Indian history. This includes collections related to the
Buddhist
circuits of Bihar, the Gupta Empire, and the Indian Independence Movement. The museum serves as a
hands-on
learning
resource for students studying archaeology, numismatics, and material culture. The archival center includes
facilities
for preserving and digitizing rare documents, photographs, and oral history recordings.
4. Research and Collaboration Spaces
The department encourages research through its Center for Regional History, which provides dedicated
workstations for
faculty and postgraduate students. Collaboration with institutions like the Patna Museum, KP Jayswal Research
Institute,
and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) facilitates fieldwork, excavations, and documentation
projects. The
department also organizes seminars, workshops, and national conferences in its auditorium, which is
equipped
with modern
presentation tools and seating for 200 participants.
5. Community Engagement and Outreach
The infrastructure supports extension activities such as heritage walks, local history projects, and
documentation of
oral traditions. Students participate in community outreach programs, including workshops for school
teachers
and
initiatives to promote historical awareness among the public. The department’s digital archive of local
history
resources is accessible to researchers and community members, fostering a broader engagement with Bihar’s past.
6. Safety and Accessibility
The department prioritizes safety and inclusivity, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, fire safety systems,
and secure
storage for valuable artifacts. Digitization efforts ensure the preservation of fragile materials, while
climate-controlled environments protect physical collections.
7. Future Initiatives
Plans for expansion include a digital humanities lab for advanced research, partnerships with
international
universities
for collaborative projects, and the development of a virtual museum to showcase Bihar’s historical
treasures to
a global
audience.
In summary, the Department of History at B.D. College combines traditional resources like libraries and museums
with
modern digital tools to create an enriching academic environment. This infrastructure not only supports rigorous
historical scholarship but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Bihar
and
India.
Number of Seats in U.G. : 200
Number of Seats in P.G. : 30
