ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Established in 1988, the Department of Geography is dedicated to academic excellence and experiential, field-based learning. It blends traditional geographic knowledge with modern geospatial technologies to offer a well-rounded and contemporary curriculum. Located in Seema village, approximately 6 km from Rohru town, RVS Government College Seema is situated at 31°13′ N latitude and 77°47′ E longitude, with an average elevation of 1,700 m above sea level. Positioned roughly 110 km from Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, the department plays a pivotal role in advancing geographical awareness and sustainable thinking. Inspired by the words of Professor James Fairgrieve, “Geography comes through the soles of one’s shoes,” the department emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to explore, observe, and analyze both physical landscapes and human interactions. The aim is to make geography relevant, meaningful, and application-oriented in the context of real-world challenges.

VISION

To provide students with a transformative educational experience in Geography-rooted in academic freedom, innovation, and inclusivity-while contributing to local and global communities through teaching, research, and outreach.

MISSION

• To prepare students to address global and local challenges by promoting sustainable environments and resilient communities.

• To lead in advancing geographic education and geospatial technologies, leveraging their integrative power to solve complex real-world problems.

OBJECTIVES

• To deliver a comprehensive understanding of both physical and human geography.

• To promote critical thinking, spatial analysis, and data interpretation skills.

• To foster a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.

• To offer hands-on training through fieldwork, laboratory work, and open-source GIS/Remote Sensing software (e.g., QGIS, SAGA).

• To enhance eco-literacy and awareness of natural resource management and environmental sustainability.

• To prepare students for competitive examinations, higher education, and diverse professional pathways.

• To develop skilled manpower in geospatial technologies, supporting employment generation and entrepreneurship.

SWOT ANALYSIS

Strengths

• A well-equipped laboratory with essential instruments and practical resources.

• Consistent student enrolment, even without Geography being offered at the secondary school level.

• A higher proportion of female students, reflecting inclusive participation.

• Presence of sincere and punctual students, especially in assignments and practical work.

• Adoption of open-source GIS and Remote Sensing tools such as QGIS and SAGA for practical learning.

Weaknesses

• The current syllabus is not fully aligned with the requirements of UGC-NET, HPPSC, and other competitive exams.

• Lack of a dedicated GIS/Remote Sensing laboratory and stable internet connectivity.

• Limited integration of advanced geospatial techniques in routine academic practice.

• Low student interest in map-making and cartographic techniques, which are foundational to geographic studies.

Opportunities

• Provides a platform for learning the basics of geospatial technology and digital mapping tools.

• Emphasizes the importance of natural resource management and sustainable development.

• Organizes annual academic field tours to expose students to diverse physical and socio-economic environments.

• Offers environmental education and encourages participation in community-driven initiatives, such as disaster management drills, cleanliness campaigns, and eco-awareness drives.

Threats

• Limited vacancies in school teaching posts for Geography discourage long-term academic commitment among students.

• External pressures from NGOs and the public to admit students after deadlines hinder academic planning and affect academic outcomes.

• Challenging geographical and climatic conditions occasionally disrupt academic schedules, fieldwork, and co-curricular activities.