Department at a Glance
The Geography Department at National P.G. College is a beacon of academic distinction, fostering a dynamic environment for scholars, researchers, and students since its inception in 1979. The department experienced significant growth from the 1990s onwards under the leadership of Prof. P.K. Singh. With a commitment to rigorous academics, innovative teaching, and social responsibility, it has become a center of geographical studies. The student-focused approach ensures personalized guidance, with small class sizes encouraging active participation and exploration of geographical theories and practices. Fieldwork and project-based learning provide practical skills essential for future careers in geography. The department offers a range of programs such as TAPASYA (Training and Practices for achieving success of youths' aspirations), a free mentorship initiative for UPSC/UPPSC preparation, special classes for UGC NET/JRF (Special 20), as well as international workshops, seminars, internships, outreach programs, MOOCs, and IIRS courses. Advanced facilities, including GIS and Remote Sensing labs, support hands-on learning and research, while an extensive library with up-to-date journals and resources complements academic pursuits. Research is a key strength, with faculty and students actively contributing to national and international projects and collaborating with prestigious institutions, government bodies, and NGOs. The research centers address critical topics like environmental sustainability, disaster management, and urban planning. In 2023, Dr. Ritu Jain received the Best Teacher award in the NATIONAL SHREE SAMMAN, the college's highest teaching accolade. The department proudly mentors diligent Ph.D. scholars under the guidance of esteemed faculty members like Prof. P.K. Singh, Dr. Ritu Jain, Dr. Amit Gupta, and Dr. Abhishek Singh. The Geography Department's achievements in academics, research, and community service are well-recognized, with alumni excelling in academia, research institutions, government, and the private sector. Outreach activities include programs that promote geographical awareness, environmental education, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development. International collaborations, exchange programs, and joint research initiatives broaden students' perspectives and learning experiences. The department also hosts a variety of events such as national and international seminars, workshops, and internships with organizations like LDA, the Central Groundwater Board, UPRSAC, and other governmental and non-governmental projects. The department's mission is to contribute to society through geographical knowledge, with initiatives such as the Geo-Help Program, Avani Journal of Geography, and Vasundra-Ek Pehel Magazine, all aimed at promoting community development and environmental sustainability. It has adopted villages in the Kaushambi area for rural development and offers programs like S-20 UGC NET classes to prepare students for competitive exams. Additional initiatives include free Civil Services coaching, the "Abki Diwali, Sabki Diwali" inclusivity campaign, and the Changemakers social service education campaign. The department also addresses water conservation with "Water an Idea Water for Life, promotes environmental awareness through "Love Your Earth," and encourages skill development through training in ArcGIS.
Head of Department
HOD's Message
Geography is the science of space and place, revealing the intricate connections between the physical environment and human societies. Our department is dedicated to exploring these relationships through rigorous research, innovative teaching, and hands-on fieldwork. We empower students to become critical thinkers and responsible global citizens who can address contemporary challenges with spatial intelligence and a deep understanding of our planet.
Our Academic Programmes
B.A. (Geography)
- Duration : 3 Years
- Level : Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Passed in any discipline with minimum 45% marks in aggregate at 10+2 level
- Avg Fees : ₹12,000 / Year
M.A. (Geography)
- Duration : 2 Years
- Level : Postgraduate
- Eligibility: Minimum 45% required at UG Level in the relevant discipline.
- Avg Fees : ₹18,000 / Year
Ph.D. in Geography
- Duration : 3 Years
- Level : Ph.D.
- Eligibility: Minimum 55% required at Post Graduate Level in relevant subject
- Avg Fees : ₹18,000 / Year
Expert Mentors
Dr. Abhishek Kumar Singh
Research focuses on urban planning and development, with interests in sustainable cities, spatial analysis, and urbanization trends. Committed to academic research and policy-relevant work on India’s evolving urban landscapes.
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Dr. Ritu Jain
Dr. Ritu Jain is an environmentalist with over 23 years of teaching experience. Serving in the Department of Geography, Remote Sensing GIS at National P.G. College, Lucknow, since 2003. Dr. Jain is recognized as the first PhD holder from the Department of Geography at the University of Lucknow, Lucknow. Her extensive background includes significant contributions to fields such as Environmental Science, land use and land cover, Medical Geography, Disease Epidemiology, Environmental Sustainability, Gomti River Conservation, and Sustainable Development. She is also the Co-coordinator for P.G. Diploma in Remote Sensing & GIS, National P.G. College, Lucknow, (since 2014). On 5 September 2023, she was awarded the first C.B. Gupta National Shree Best Teacher Award. She is also a core member of the Green Audit Committee, Cultural Activity Committee, and Placement Cell Committee. Additionally, she coordinates the Online Distance Learning Programme at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, ISRO, Department of Space, Government of India. She is a founding life member of the NAGI, Research India Foundation, and a member of several international and national committees; Dr. Jain has made significant academic and professional contributions. Dr. Jain has completed several minor projects, written several books, authored over 25 research papers, and presented more than 50 national and international seminars. She was appointed as an Eco-Activist, Natural Scientist, and Environmentalist in the Committee of Joshimath by the Ganga Mission Society. Dr. Jain is deeply committed to environmental and societal upliftment initiatives. Her life mission is dedicated to the environment, societal health development, and the upliftment of students, continually striving to make a positive impact through her work and mentorship.
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