MAJOR THRUST AREA OF RESEARCH:

The department is dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding in political science through teaching, research, and community engagement. Its goals and objectives are to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to engage in informed debate about pressing political issues. The department's major thrust area of research is focused on political institutions, behaviour, and processes.
Faculty members actively research topics such as State politics in India, public opinion, Indian political thinkers, Research Methodology and International Relations. The department is committed to promoting interdisciplinary research that draws on the expertise of scholars in other fields, including economics, sociology, and history. The faculty has subsequently made a substantial contribution to research on the following issues:

Looking ahead, the department is focused on expanding its research capacity and enhancing the quality of its teaching and learning programs. It plans to strengthen its partnerships with other departments within the university, as well as with institutions around the world. The department is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community of scholars and students and promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice.

Departmental milestones achieved:

• No. of research published in peer-reviewed journals in the last five years: 72
• Average impact factor of the research publication: 3-5
• No. of books published in last five years - 11
• No. of seminars/conferences organised by the department - 4
• No. of foreign visits by faculty members and scholars during last five years - 5
• No special lecture organised by the department - 8
• Total research grants received during last five years – 2 (1 UGC and 1 ICSSR)
• No. awards/honours received by the faculty members during the last five years
• Departmental recognition - 2
• No. of MOU signed - 1

Major Challenges:

The department’s major challenges include attracting and retaining talented faculty members and students, securing funding for research and teaching, and staying abreast of the rapidly evolving political landscape. However, the department's major strengths include its dedicated and experienced faculty, its commitment to high-quality research and teaching, and its track record of producing successful graduates who have gone on to careers in academia, government, and civil society. The Department of Political Science is a vibrant and dynamic academic department dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding in political science. With a commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement, the department is well-positioned to continue making important contributions to studying politics in the years ahead.

Future Plans:

In terms of future plans, the Department of Political Science is focused on several key areas to enhance its academic standing and impact further in the following areas:

Research Expansion:

The department aims to expand its research capacity by encouraging faculty members to pursue innovative and impactful research projects. It plans to foster collaboration among faculty members and other institutions, both nationally and internationally, to address pressing political issues and contribute to the broader academic community.

Interdisciplinary Approach:

Keeping the local needs in mind and recognizing the interconnectedness of political science with other disciplines, the department plans to strengthen its interdisciplinary approach to research and teaching. It promotes collaborations with scholars from diverse fields, such as economics, sociology, law, and environmental studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of complex political phenomena.

Technology Integration:

To stay at the forefront of advancements in the digital age, the department plans to integrate technology into its research, teaching, and outreach efforts. This includes leveraging data analytics, computational methods, and digital platforms to enhance research methodologies, offer innovative courses, and facilitate online collaboration among students and scholars.

Community Engagement:

The department intends to deepen its engagement with the broader community, including government agencies, non-profit organisations, and the public. By fostering partnerships and actively participating in policy discussions, the department aims to contribute its expertise to address real-world challenges and promote informed decision-making.

Student Support and Mentorship:

The department recognises the importance of providing students with a supportive and nurturing environment. It plans to enhance mentorship programs, career counselling, and networking opportunities to empower students and help them achieve their academic and professional goals.

Global Collaboration:

The department seeks to expand its international collaborations in student exchanges and research partnerships. By fostering relationships with renowned institutions across the globe, the department aims to provide students and faculty members with opportunities for cross-cultural learning, research collaboration, and exposure to diverse perspectives.

These future plans reflect the department's commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and relevance in the ever-evolving field of political science. By embracing new avenues of research, interdisciplinary approaches, and engagement with the wider community, the department strives to make a lasting impact on the understanding and practice of politics at both local and global levels.