Introduction

 The Department of Geography, established in 1988, is recognized as one of the   youngest geography departments in northern India. Despite its relative youth, the   department has made significant contributions to both physical and human   geography. In 2016, it received support from the Department of Science and   Technology (DST) under the Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST)   program, enhancing its research capabilities and academic growth.

The Department of Geography stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that prioritizes hands-on field studies. Through rigorous physical and socio-economic surveys, as well as extensive all-India tours, students gain invaluable exposure to India's diverse physical and cultural landscapes. These immersive experiences not only enhance their academic understanding but also foster practical skills that are essential in real-world applications. Additionally, students are trained in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing, where they grasp both theoretical and practical aspects. They also work on projects using this advanced software, further solidifying their technical proficiency and analytical capabilities.

Students of the department have a strong track record of success, securing positions across a wide spectrum of fields including academia, administration and industry. The two-year program is designed to promote holistic personality development, preparing students for both government and non-government roles. This balanced approach to education ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also possess the soft skills and practical experience required in the workforce. The department's emphasis on field studies, combined with its focus on comprehensive development, underscores its role in shaping well-rounded, capable professionals.

A unique aspect of the department is its pioneering role in introducing Mountain Geography as specialized course at the postgraduate level. This innovation allowed students to explore these crucial areas in greater depth. Moreover, the department has produced extensive research on the glaciers of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh, contributing valuable insights into these vital natural resources.

The current research focus of the department is on the evaluation and management of Himalayan resources, encompassing a broad range of topics, including agriculture, forest ecology, population studies, gender studies, tourism, regional planning, geomorphology, hydrology, cultural geography, and environmental management. The department's work in these areas is driven by a commitment to sustainable development and effective management of the Himalayan region's diverse resources.

Field-based studies are a cornerstone of the department's academic and research approach, incorporating physical surveys, socio-economic surveys and field tours. In agriculture, research efforts are directed towards understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Himalayan terrain and climate. Forest ecology studies aim to preserve and enhance the region's biodiversity, while population and gender studies seek to improve the quality of life for local communities. Tourism and regional planning research focuses on developing sustainable practices that benefit the local economy without compromising the environment.

Geomorphology and hydrology are critical areas of study, given the significance of the Himalayan Mountains and river systems. Research in these fields aims to understand the physical processes shaping the landscape and develops strategies for managing water resources effectively. Cultural geography studies explore the rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan region, examining how cultural practices and traditions interact with the environment.

Finally, environmental management research is also a focus of the department's efforts, focusing on developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and human activities on the Himalayan ecosystem. By integrating insights from various subfields of geography, the department strives to contribute to the sustainable development and conservation of the Himalayan region, ensuring that its natural and cultural resources are preserved for future generations.

The outcome of the research of the department conducted by the Research scholars and Faculties found its place in the well reputed National/International SCI Journals with high impact factors such as Remote Sens., Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, Modeling Earth Systems and Environment, Journal of Himalayan Ecology and Sustainable Development, Journal of Indian Society of Remote Sensing, Geo Journal, Research Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Geology, Ecology and Landscape, Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA), The Geographer, Deccan Geographer, Transactions etc.