Departments - Rajiv Gandhi Government College Chaura Maidan, Shimla H.P 171001

Departments.

Geography is a discipline that examines the ecosystems, landscapes, and interactions between humans and their environment on Earth. Our department is dedicated to understanding the spatial patterns and processes that shape our world, from the physical features of the planet to the cultural, economic, and political dynamics that occur within and across regions. At present, the department of geography offers an undergraduate program of Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with geography as a major or minor subject under the choice-based credit system (CBCS). The courses offered by the department of geography inculcate employability skills and enhance the critical thinking and cognitive skills of the students by integrating values and entrepreneurial skills. In our department, students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including physical geography, human geography, knowledge about Geographic Information Science (GIS), environmental geography, etc.
At present, more than 500 students are enrolled in the department of geography. All students registered in the department with geography as a major or minor subject of study are eligible to join the department's active subject society, “Kotshera Geography Society." Every year, the Kotshera Geography Society organizes competitions, seminars, and workshops on current issues for students that are beneficial for their overall development. During graduation, the students are also encouraged to undertake small research-based projects, which are also part of the curriculum. The aim of the project is to provide exposure to students about the basics of research, such as questionnaire preparation, data collection, data handling, data analysis, and report writing techniques. With the assistance of committed faculty members, the department strives for excellence in teaching, learning, and research. The department's faculty members work very hard to maintain a good academic record. Additionally, they actively participate in the publication of research papers, faculty development programs, orientation programs, seminars, conferences, etc., in addition to providing the institution with full involvement, dedication, and commitment in a variety of capacities.

Faculty Name	Designation	~
Ms. Vibha Saraswati	Assistant Professor	Profile
Ms. Kanika Lakhanpal	Assistant Professor	Profile

A. Discipline Specific Core (DSC) Courses

Year	Course Name	Course Code
BA – I Year	Physical Geography	GEOGP101CC
BA – I Year	General Cartography	GEOGP102CC
BA – II Year	Human Geography	GEOGP201CC
BA – II Year	Environmental Geography	GEOGP202CC

B. Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Courses

Year	DSE	Course Name	Course Code
BA – III Year	Group-I (Any one out of two)	Geography of India	GEOGP303-1DSE
	Group-I (Any one out of two)	Economic Geography	GEOGP303-2DSE
	Group-II (Any one out of two)	Disaster Management	GEOGP304-1DSE
	Group-II (Any one out of two)	Geography of Tourism	GEOGP304-2DSE

C. Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC)

Year	Course Name	Course Code
BA – II Year	Regional Planning and Development	GEOGP203SEC
BA – II Year	Remote Sensing and GPS	GEOGP204SEC
BA – III Year	Geographic Information System (Practical)	GEOGP301SEC
BA – III Year	Field Techniques and Survey Based Project Report (Practical)	GEOGP302SEC

D. Generic Elective Courses (GEC)

Year	GEC	Course Name	Course Code
BA – III Year	GEC-I	Disaster Risk Reduction	GEOGP305-GE1
BA – III Year	GEC-II	Sustainability and Development	GEOGP306-GE2

NOTE: The students of BA Economics will select Any Two Generic Elective Courses form Unrelated Discipline(s)/Subject(s) other than Economics and their second subject of study.

PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY (GEOGP101CC)

Physical geography is the branch of geography that deals with the study of natural features and processes of the Earth's surface. The course outcomes of physical geography typically include:

Understanding the basic concepts and principles of physical geography, such as Earth's structure, landforms, weather and climate, and natural resources.
Developing a deep knowledge of the physical processes that shape the Earth's surface, including plate tectonics, erosion, weathering, and volcanic activity.
Gaining an understanding of the complex relationships between physical geography and human geography, including the impact of human activities on the environment.
Analyzing the distribution of natural resources, including water, minerals, and fossil fuels, and their impact on human societies.
Developing skills in data analysis, map interpretation, and spatial analysis, which are essential for understanding the patterns and processes of physical geography.
Exploring the interdisciplinary nature of physical geography, including its connections with other sciences such as geology, climatology, and ecology.
Learning about contemporary issues in physical geography, such as climate change, deforestation, and natural hazards, and their impact on human societies.

Overall, the course outcomes of physical geography provide students with a deep understanding of the natural processes and systems that shape our planet, as well as the complex interactions between physical geography and human societies.

GENERAL CARTOGRAPHY (GEOGP102CC)

General Cartography is a branch of geography that deals with the study and practice of mapmaking. The course outcomes of General Cartography typically include:

Understanding the fundamental principles of cartography, including scale, projection, symbolization, and generalization.
Developing proficiency in the use of various cartographic tools and technologies, including GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and digital mapping software.
Developing skills in map design, including the selection of appropriate map scales, colors, and symbols to effectively communicate information.
Gaining an understanding of cartographic history, including the evolution of mapping techniques and the cultural, political, and social influences on cartography.
Developing an understanding of the role of maps in society, including their use in decision-making, planning, and communication.
Learning to critically analyze maps, including their accuracy, bias, and the ethical implications of cartographic representation.
Exploring the interdisciplinary nature of cartography, including its connections with other disciplines such as geography, mathematics, and computer science.

Overall, the course outcomes of General Cartography provide students with a deep understanding of the principles, techniques, and applications of mapmaking, as well as the critical thinking skills necessary to use and analyze maps effectively.

HUMAN GEOGRAPHY (GEOG201CC)

Human geography is the study of the interaction between human beings and their physical and cultural environments. The course outcomes of human geography can vary depending on the specific course and its level of complexity, but some general outcomes may include:

Understand the basic concepts, theories, and methods used in human geography, such as spatial analysis, cultural landscapes, and globalization.
Develop knowledge of the major themes and topics in human geography, including population, urbanization, migration, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
Analyze and interpret data and maps to identify patterns and relationships between human activities and their physical and cultural environments.
Evaluate the impact of human activities on the natural environment and the consequences of environmental change on human societies.
Understand the role of culture, politics, and economics in shaping human geography, including the impact of globalization on local and regional cultures and economies.
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, including the ability to apply geographic concepts and methods to real-world problems and issues.
Communicate effectively using written, oral, and visual methods to present geographic information and analysis to different audiences.

Overall, the outcomes of a human geography course are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between humans and their physical and cultural environments, and to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to analyze and address real-world problems and issues.

ENVIRONMENTAL GEOGRAPHY (GEOGP202CC)

Some common course outcomes of environmental geography may include:

Understanding of the natural systems and processes that shape the environment: Environmental geography courses often cover topics such as climate, ecosystems, and natural resources. Students should gain an understanding of the interrelationships between these systems and the factors that influence them.
Ability to analyze and interpret spatial data: Environmental geography courses typically involve the use of maps, charts, and other spatial data to analyze environmental issues. Students should be able to interpret this data and use it to draw conclusions about environmental phenomena.
Knowledge of human impacts on the environment: Environmental geography courses often focus on the ways in which human activities impact the natural environment. Students should gain an understanding of the causes and consequences of these impacts, as well as potential solutions to mitigate them.
Ability to think critically about environmental issues: Environmental geography courses should help students develop critical thinking skills that allow them to evaluate environmental issues from multiple perspectives. This includes considering the social, economic, and political factors that influence environmental decision-making.
Knowledge of environmental policies and regulations: Environmental geography courses may cover local, national, and international policies and regulations related to environmental issues. Students should gain an understanding of how these policies are developed and implemented, as well as their effectiveness.
Effective communication skills: Environmental geography courses should help students develop effective communication skills, both orally and in writing. Students should be able to clearly and persuasively communicate their ideas and opinions about environmental issues to a variety of audiences.

REGIONAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT (GEOGP203SEC)

The course outcomes of regional planning and development may vary depending on the specific goals and objectives of the course, as well as the level at which it is taught. However, some common course outcomes of regional planning and development may include:

Understanding of the principles and concepts of regional planning and development: Regional planning and development courses often cover topics such as land use planning, transportation planning, and economic development. Students should gain an understanding of the principles and concepts that guide these processes.
Ability to analyze and interpret data related to regional planning and development: Regional planning and development courses typically involve the use of data and analysis to inform decision-making. Students should be able to analyze and interpret this data, and use it to inform planning and development decisions.
Knowledge of the social, economic, and environmental impacts of regional planning and development: Regional planning and development decisions can have significant impacts on the social, economic, and environmental well-being of communities. Students should gain an understanding of these impacts, and how to evaluate the trade-offs involved in decision-making.
Ability to develop and evaluate regional plans and policies: Regional planning and development courses should help students develop the skills to develop and evaluate regional plans and policies. This includes identifying goals and objectives, analyzing data, and developing strategies to achieve desired outcomes.
Knowledge of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern regional planning and development: Regional planning and development decisions are often subject to legal and regulatory frameworks at the local, state, and federal levels. Students should gain an understanding of these frameworks, and how they impact planning and development decisions.
Effective communication skills: Regional planning and development courses should help students develop effective communication skills, both orally and in writing. Students should be able to clearly and persuasively communicate their ideas and opinions about planning and development issues to a variety of audiences, including stakeholders, decision-makers, and the public.

REMOTE SENSING AND GPS (GEOGP204SEC)

The course outcomes of remote sensing and GPS may vary depending on the specific goals and objectives of the course, as well as the level at which it is taught. However, some common course outcomes of remote sensing and GPS may include:

Understanding of the principles and applications of remote sensing and GPS: Remote sensing and GPS courses often cover topics such as electromagnetic radiation, satellite technology, and geospatial analysis. Students should gain an understanding of the principles and concepts that guide these processes. Ability to interpret and analyze remote sensing data: Remote sensing courses typically involve the use of satellite imagery and other remotely sensed data to analyze environmental phenomena. Students should be able to interpret and analyze this data, and use it to draw conclusions about environmental processes. Knowledge of the technical aspects of GPS: GPS courses typically cover the technical aspects of GPS technology, including signal processing and geodetic datum. Students should gain an understanding of how GPS technology works and how it is used to measure and map geographic features. Ability to use GPS for geospatial data collection: GPS courses should help students develop the skills to use GPS technology for geospatial data collection. This includes setting up GPS receivers, collecting and processing data, and using GPS data for mapping and analysis. Ability to integrate remote sensing and GPS data into GIS: Remote sensing and GPS data are often integrated into geographic information systems (GIS) for mapping and analysis. Students should gain an understanding of how to integrate these types of data into GIS, and use GIS to analyze and visualize geospatial data. Effective communication skills: Remote sensing and GPS courses should help students develop effective communication skills, both orally and in writing. Students should be able to clearly and persuasively communicate their ideas and findings about geospatial data to a variety of audiences, including stakeholders, decision-makers, and the public. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GEOGP301SEC)

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a technology used for capturing, storing, analyzing, and displaying geospatial data. The learning outcomes of GIS include:

Understanding GIS fundamentals: Students should learn about the basic concepts of GIS, including geospatial data types, coordinate systems, and map projections.
Data acquisition: Students should be able to acquire geospatial data from various sources such as satellites, aerial photography, and field surveys.
Data processing: Students should learn how to preprocess geospatial data by performing quality checks, data cleaning, and data integration.
Spatial analysis: Students should be able to perform spatial analysis to explore relationships and patterns in geospatial data. This includes spatial statistics, proximity analysis, and raster analysis.
Cartography: Students should be able to create maps and visualizations that effectively communicate geospatial information to users.
GIS applications: Students should learn how GIS is used in various fields such as urban planning, natural resource management, and disaster management.
GIS software: Students should be proficient in using GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Google Earth.
Project management: Students should be able to manage GIS projects, including project planning, resource allocation, and project evaluation.
Ethical considerations: Students should learn about ethical considerations in GIS such as privacy, data ownership, and intellectual property.

Overall, the learning outcomes of GIS provide students with a comprehensive understanding of geospatial data analysis and management, which can be applied in various fields and industries.

FIELD TECHNIQUES AND SURVEY-BASED PROJECT (GEOGP302SEC)

Field techniques and survey-based project report involve collecting data in the field through various methods, such as surveys, questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The learning outcomes of this course include:

Research design: Students should be able to design and plan research projects that involve field data collection, including developing research questions, hypotheses, and sampling strategies.
Field data collection: Students should be able to collect data in the field using a range of techniques such as surveys, questionnaires, and interviews.
Data analysis: Students should be able to analyze field data using appropriate statistical methods and software.
Report writing: Students should be able to communicate the results of their research in a clear and concise manner through written reports that adhere to academic standards.
Project management: Students should be able to manage field-based research projects, including planning, budgeting, and scheduling.
Interpersonal skills: Students should develop strong interpersonal skills to interact with participants, stakeholders, and team members during data collection and analysis.
Ethical considerations: Students should learn about ethical considerations in field-based research, including informed consent, confidentiality, and privacy.
Time management: Students should learn to manage their time effectively during field data collection to meet deadlines and ensure quality data collection.
Collaboration: Students should be able to work collaboratively with team members to ensure the success of field-based research projects.

Overall, the learning outcomes of field techniques and survey-based project report provide students with skills to design, manage, and execute field-based research projects in a variety of contexts. These skills are valuable for careers in social sciences, public health, environmental science, and many other fields.

GEOGRAPHY OF INDIA (GEOGP303-1DSE)

Geography of India is a subject that focuses on the physical and human aspects of India's geography, including its landforms, climate, flora and fauna, natural resources, demography, and culture. The learning outcomes of geography of India include:

Understanding India's physical geography: Students should learn about India's diverse physical features such as mountains, rivers, coasts, deserts, and plateaus.
Climate and weather patterns: Students should learn about India's monsoon climate, tropical cyclones, heatwaves, and other weather patterns.
Biodiversity and ecology: Students should learn about India's rich biodiversity, including its flora and fauna, and understand the challenges to conservation.
Natural resources: Students should learn about India's natural resources, including minerals, forests, water, and energy, and their significance for the economy.
Demography: Students should learn about India's population, including its size, growth rate, distribution, and demographic transition.
Culture and society: Students should learn about India's diverse culture, including religion, language, customs, and traditions.
Regional variations: Students should learn about regional variations in India's geography, including cultural, social, economic, and political aspects.
Spatial analysis: Students should be able to analyze spatial data using geographic information systems (GIS) and other mapping tools.
Contemporary issues: Students should learn about current issues and challenges facing India, including urbanization, environmental degradation, climate change, and social inequality.

Overall, the learning outcomes of geography of India provide students with a comprehensive understanding of India's geography, which is crucial for careers in fields such as environmental science, international relations, urban planning, and cultural studies.

ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY (GEOGP303-2DSE)

Economic Geography is a subfield of geography that examines the spatial distribution of economic activities and the interrelationships between economic systems and the physical environment. The learning outcomes of Economic Geography include:

Understanding economic systems: Students should understand the characteristics and organization of economic systems, including the global economy, regional economies, and local economies.
The spatial organization of economic activities: Students should understand the spatial patterns of economic activities, including the location of industries, markets, and transportation networks.
Economic globalization: Students should understand the processes and consequences of economic globalization, including the movement of goods, capital, and labor across borders.
Regional development: Students should understand the factors that influence regional development, including natural resources, infrastructure, and social and cultural factors.
Economic policy: Students should understand the role of economic policy in shaping economic systems, including the role of governments, international organizations, and private sector actors.
Urban and regional planning: Students should understand the principles of urban and regional planning and their relation to economic development, including land use planning, transportation planning, and economic development planning.
Environmental sustainability: Students should understand the relationship between economic activities and the physical environment, and the principles of environmental sustainability in economic development.
Research and data analysis: Students should be able to analyze economic data and use research methods to investigate economic processes and trends.
Communication and teamwork: Students should develop strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with stakeholders in economic development and planning.

Overall, the learning outcomes of Economic Geography provide students with a broad understanding of the spatial organization of economic activities and their relationship to the physical environment, as well as the skills and knowledge to analyze economic data and collaborate with stakeholders in economic development and planning. These skills are valuable for careers in economic development, urban and regional planning, environmental management, and many other fields.

DISASTER MANAGEMENT (GEOG304-1DSE)

Disaster management is a multidisciplinary subject that involves the study of hazards, vulnerability, and disaster risk reduction. The learning outcomes of disaster management include:

Understanding disasters: Students should understand the nature, types, and causes of disasters, and the factors that contribute to their impact.
Risk assessment and management: Students should be able to identify hazards and assess the risk they pose, and develop strategies to mitigate or manage that risk.
Disaster preparedness: Students should learn about emergency planning, evacuation procedures, and other measures to prepare for disasters.
Disaster response: Students should learn about the principles and practices of disaster response, including search and rescue, medical assistance, and logistics.
Disaster recovery: Students should learn about the process of recovery after a disaster, including rebuilding, rehabilitation, and restoration.
International disaster management: Students should learn about the global context of disaster management, including international frameworks and policies, and the role of international organizations in disaster response.
Communication and leadership: Students should develop strong communication and leadership skills to coordinate and manage disaster response efforts.
Ethical considerations: Students should learn about ethical considerations in disaster management, including the rights of affected populations and the responsibilities of responders.
Research and innovation: Students should learn about the role of research and innovation in disaster management, including the use of technology and data to improve disaster response and risk reduction.

Overall, the learning outcomes of disaster management provide students with skills and knowledge to respond to disasters, reduce disaster risk, and contribute to the resilience of communities and societies. These skills are valuable for careers in emergency management, humanitarian aid, development, and many other fields.

GEOGRAPHY OF TOURISM (GEOGP304-2DSE)

Geography of Tourism is a subfield of geography that examines the spatial distribution of tourism activities and the interrelationships between tourism systems and the physical environment. The course outcomes of Geography of Tourism include:

Understanding tourism systems: Students should understand the characteristics and organization of tourism systems, including the global tourism industry, regional tourism economies, and local tourism activities.
The spatial organization of tourism activities: Students should understand the spatial patterns of tourism activities, including the location of tourist destinations, attractions, and facilities.
Tourist behavior: Students should understand the motivations and behavior of tourists, including their preferences, travel patterns, and impacts on local communities and the environment.
Economic impacts of tourism: Students should understand the economic impacts of tourism, including its contribution to regional development, employment, and income generation.
Environmental impacts of tourism: Students should understand the environmental impacts of tourism, including the effects on natural resources, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.
Tourism policy and planning: Students should understand the role of tourism policy and planning in shaping tourism systems, including the role of governments, international organizations, and private sector actors.
Sustainable tourism: Students should understand the principles of sustainable tourism, including the management of tourism activities to promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Tourism research methods: Students should be able to use research methods to investigate tourism processes and trends, including the collection and analysis of tourism data.
Communication and teamwork: Students should develop strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with stakeholders in tourism planning and management. Overall, the course outcomes of Geography of Tourism provide students with a broad understanding of the spatial organization of tourism activities and their relationship to the physical environment, as well as the skills and knowledge to analyze tourism data and collaborate with stakeholders in tourism planning and management. These skills are valuable for careers in tourism planning and management, environmental management, cultural heritage preservation, and many other fields related to tourism and sustainable development.

DISASTER RISK REDUCTION (GEOGP305-GE1)

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a specialized subject that focuses on the prevention and reduction of disasters and their impacts. The course outcomes of Disaster Risk Reduction include:

Understanding disaster risk: Students should be able to identify different types of hazards and understand their frequency, intensity, and potential impacts.
Assessing disaster risk: Students should be able to assess the vulnerability of communities and infrastructure to disasters, and develop risk reduction strategies.
Disaster risk reduction strategies: Students should be able to develop strategies to reduce disaster risk, including mitigation, prevention, preparedness, and response.
Policy and planning: Students should be able to develop policies and plans to support disaster risk reduction, including disaster risk management plans, contingency plans, and emergency response plans.
Community engagement: Students should be able to engage with communities and stakeholders to build awareness, participation, and ownership in disaster risk reduction efforts.
Early warning systems: Students should be able to design and implement early warning systems to provide timely and effective information to communities and decision-makers.
Disaster risk communication: Students should be able to communicate effectively with different stakeholders about disaster risk, and develop communication strategies to support disaster risk reduction efforts.
Disaster risk reduction in practice: Students should be able to apply disaster risk reduction principles and practices in real-world settings, including in development projects, infrastructure design, and emergency response.
Research and innovation: Students should be able to identify and apply research and innovation to improve disaster risk reduction strategies and outcomes.

Overall, the course outcomes of Disaster Risk Reduction provide students with a broad understanding of the causes and impacts of disasters, and the skills and knowledge to design and implement effective strategies to reduce disaster risk. These skills are valuable for careers in emergency management, humanitarian aid, development, and many other fields.

SUSTAINABILITY AND DEVELOPMENT (GEOGP306-GE2)

Sustainability and Development is a multidisciplinary subject that focuses on the integration of economic, social, and environmental considerations in development planning and decision-making. The course outcomes of Sustainability and Development include:

Understanding sustainability: Students should understand the concept of sustainability, including the principles of sustainable development, and the importance of achieving sustainable outcomes.
Sustainable development goals: Students should understand the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relevance to development planning and decision-making.
Environmental sustainability: Students should understand the principles of environmental sustainability, including the management of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
Economic sustainability: Students should understand the principles of economic sustainability, including sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, and social equity.
Social sustainability: Students should understand the principles of social sustainability, including the promotion of human rights, gender equality, and social inclusion.
Sustainable development planning: Students should be able to apply sustainable development principles to planning and decision-making, including the development of sustainable development strategies, policies, and programs.
Sustainable development indicators: Students should understand the use of sustainable development indicators to measure progress towards sustainable development goals.
Sustainable business practices: Students should understand the principles of sustainable business practices, including corporate social responsibility, sustainability reporting, and sustainable supply chain management.
Sustainable development in practice: Students should be able to apply sustainable development principles in real-world settings, including in project management, urban planning, and natural resource management.

Overall, the course outcomes of Sustainability and Development provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of sustainability and their application in development planning and decision-making. These skills are valuable for careers in sustainability, development, environmental management, and many other fields.