DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY
The Department of Geography at Bhuwaneshwari Dayal (B.D.) College, Patna, offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary program
that explores the intricate relationships between humans and their environments. The curriculum encompasses both
physical geography—including geomorphology, climatology, and natural resources—and human geography, covering topics such
as population studies, urbanization, regional planning, and economic geography. Situated in the fertile Gangetic plains
of Bihar, the department provides a unique opportunity to study diverse geographical phenomena, from river systems and
agricultural patterns to urban development and migration. With a dedicated faculty, well-equipped laboratories, and
practical fieldwork, students gain hands-on experience in GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and
spatial analysis. The department aims to produce skilled geographers capable of addressing critical environmental and
societal challenges in careers ranging from urban planning and environmental management to research and education.
The Geography Department at B.D. College, Patna, stands out for its strong emphasis on applied learning and regional
relevance. Its strategic location in Bihar—a state marked by its distinct physical landscapes, dense population, and
developmental aspirations—serves as an ideal living laboratory for students. The department’s strengths include its
focus on modern tools like GIS and remote sensing, along with rigorous fieldwork that allows students to map, analyze,
and interpret spatial data firsthand. Through projects on flood management, agricultural productivity, urban sprawl, and
resource conservation, students develop practical skills highly valued in the job market. The department also encourages
participation in surveys, seminars, and collaborative research, preparing graduates for diverse opportunities in
disaster management, regional planning, cartography, climate research, and government services.
The Department of Geography at Bhuwaneshwari Dayal College, Patna, is committed to delivering excellence in geographical
education and research. The undergraduate program provides a strong foundation in both physical and human geography,
supported by practical training in geospatial technologies and field methodologies. With a qualified faculty and modern
resources, the department fosters critical thinking, spatial analysis, and a deep understanding of regional and global
geographical issues. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills necessary for advanced academic
pursuits and professional careers in environmental consultancy, urban planning, GIS specialization, education, and
public policy. The department strives to produce graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to sustainable
development and spatial problem-solving.
INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT
The Department of Geography at Bhuwaneshwari Dayal (B.D.) College, Mithapur, Patna stands as a center of
excellence for
the study of physical landscapes, human-environment interactions, and spatial dynamics, with a special focus on
the
geographical diversity and challenges of Bihar and India. The department's infrastructure is meticulously
designed to
support field-based learning, technological innovation, and interdisciplinary research, adhering to the academic
standards set by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the National Assessment and Accreditation
Council (NAAC), and
the Patliputra University, Patna (PPU).
1. Academic and Research Facilities
The department operates from a dedicated wing within the college, featuring smart classrooms equipped
with projectors,
audio-visual systems, and interactive whiteboards. These facilities enable dynamic teaching methodologies,
including
GIS-based simulations, remote sensing imagery analysis, and virtual field trips to geographically significant
sites. The
departmental library is a cornerstone of its infrastructure, housing over 2,500 books, including
atlases, topographic
maps, and works on regional geography, climatology, and urban planning. Subscriptions to journals like National
Geographical Journal of India and Transactions of the Institute of Indian Geographers provide access to
cutting-edge
research.
2. Laboratory and Technological Resources
The department boasts specialized laboratories for hands-on learning and research. The Geoinformatics
Lab is equipped
with high-performance computers running software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, ERDAS Imagine, and Google Earth
Pro, enabling
students to analyze spatial data and create digital maps. The Physical Geography Lab features equipment
for soil
testing, water quality analysis, and meteorological instruments like rain gauges and anemometers. The Remote
Sensing Lab
provides access to satellite imagery and drones for aerial surveys, supporting research on land use patterns,
flood
mapping, and agricultural monitoring.
3. Fieldwork and Practical Training
A hallmark of the department is its emphasis on fieldwork. Students undertake regular excursions to
geographically
significant sites in Bihar, such as the Ganga River basin, Valmiki Tiger Reserve, and urban centers like Patna.
The
department maintains a field equipment store with GPS devices, drones, soil sampling kits, and
weather monitoring
instruments. Collaborations with organizations like the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority and
National Atlas and
Thematic Mapping Organisation (NATMO) facilitate practical training and real-world applications of
geographical
knowledge.
4. Research and Collaboration Spaces
The department promotes research through its Center for Spatial Studies, which provides dedicated
workstations
for
faculty and postgraduate students. The center supports projects on topics like riverine geography, urban sprawl,
and
climate change adaptation. The department’s seminar hall, equipped with modern presentation tools, hosts
workshops,
conferences, and guest lectures by renowned geographers and environmentalists.
5. Digital and Cartographic Resources
The department’s map library includes topographic sheets, thematic maps, and historical maps of Bihar and
India.
Digitization efforts have created a digital archive of spatial data, accessible through the department’s
online portal.
Students also learn traditional cartography skills alongside digital map-making techniques.
6. Safety and Accessibility
The department prioritizes safety and inclusivity, with wheelchair-accessible entrances, fire safety systems,
and secure
storage for archival materials. Digitization efforts ensure the preservation of rare documents, while
climate-controlled
environments protect physical collections.
7. Community Engagement and Outreach
The infrastructure supports extension activities such as environmental awareness campaigns, disaster
preparedness
workshops, and GIS training programs for local government bodies. Students participate in community
mapping projects,
documenting issues like water scarcity, sanitation, and land degradation.
8. Safety and Accessibility
The department prioritizes safety with designated fieldwork protocols, first-aid kits, and emergency
communication
devices. The infrastructure is wheelchair-accessible, and digital resources are designed for inclusivity.
9. Future Initiatives
Plans include establishing a climate change research lab, expanding drone technology for geographical
surveys, and
partnering with international institutions for collaborative research on sustainable development.
In summary, the Department of Geography at B.D. College combines traditional geographical tools with modern
technology
to create a robust learning environment. This infrastructure empowers students to address the geographical
challenges of
Bihar and India through innovative research and practical engagement.
Number of Seats in U.G. : 200
Number of Seats in P.G. : 30
