Rani Channamma University, Belagavi

1. ABOUT


The Department of Studies and Research in Geography at Rani Channamma University (RCU), Belagavi, is a distinguished academic unit functioning under the School of Applied Sciences. It was originally established in the year 1982 as part of the Kittur Rani Channamma Post Graduate Centre, which operated as a regional extension of Karnatak University, Dharwad. With the establishment of Rani Channamma University as an independent institution in 2010, the department was formally integrated into the university's academic framework, continuing its legacy of excellence in geographical education and research.

Vision

To be a leading centre of geographical education and research that addresses contemporary spatial challenges and contributes to sustainable development at local, regional, and global levels.

Mission

  • To provide quality education in geography that blends traditional knowledge with modern technologies.
  • To promote cutting-edge research addressing environmental, social, and developmental issues.
  • To develop skilled professionals equipped to serve academia, industry, and society.
  • To encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and outreach for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Goals

The Department of Studies and Research in Geography at Rani Channamma University is committed to promoting academic excellence by fostering a rigorous and innovative learning environment that encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary engagement. A core goal of the department is to advance research and innovation in diverse fields such as climate change, urban and rural development, environmental studies, and geospatial technologies like GIS and Remote Sensing. The department aims to equip students with essential technical skills, including cartographic techniques, field survey methods, and spatial data analysis, thereby enhancing their employability across academic, industrial, and governmental sectors. It strives to engage with the community through collaborative projects and outreach programs that address regional developmental challenges and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, the department is dedicated to instilling values of environmental ethics and social responsibility, nurturing a sense of global citizenship among its students. Strengthening academic linkages through national and international collaborations, faculty exchanges, and joint research initiatives is also a key priority. Furthermore, the department seeks to support lifelong learning and professional development through continuous academic engagement and capacity-building opportunities.

Achievements

Information will be updated soon.

2. PROGRAMMES


Ph.D. in Geography
Eligibility Candidates who have secured at least 55% of aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/Physically challenged) of equivalent grade under grading system, in their Master’s Degree or equivalent examination from the recognized Universities / Institutions. Candidates who have qualified UGC (JRF) Examinations/NET/SET/SELT can directly appear for the interview.
Mode of Study Full-Time / Part-Time
Admission Procedure Rani Channamma University, Belagavi, conducts Ph.D. admissions through an entrance test in respective subjects. Applications must be submitted online via the UUCMS portal. Admission is made as per the reservation policy and directions issued by the Government of Karnataka and University rules.
M.Sc. in Geography
Eligibility A candidate should have passed B. A./B.Sc. degree in Geography as one of the optional subject at least 45% of marks in Geography as well as in B. A./B.Sc. as aggregate marks. Relaxation for SC/ST etc. will be followed as per prevailing rules of the University.
Admission Criteria The admission shall be made as per the reservation policy and directions issued in this regard from time to time by the Government of Karnataka and also as per rules as prescribed by the University Grant Commission from time to time.
Mode of Study Regular-Full-Time.
Programme Duration 02 Years- 04 Semester CBCS Scheme.
Scope M.Sc.in Geography is a Two-year Master of Science programme. The objective behind of M.Sc. in Geography attempts to bring in an innovative approach in the way of the subject is perceived and disseminated. The courses offered aims to integrate both the basic theory and the applied aspects of the subject.
Career Prospects A Candidate Successfully completing M.Sc. Geography can find lucrative career opportunities in government sectors / Organizations and also high productive career in Teaching, Research and development and GIS and Remote Sensing area of the field.
Admission Procedure The admission shall be made as per the reservation policy and guidelines issued by the Government of Karnataka and also as per RCUB from time to time.

3. SYLLABUS


Programme Name (M.Sc. Geography): Attach Syllabus Semesters wise: Course Name (Ph.D. in Geography): Attach Coursework Syllabus:
First Semester: [Download PDF] Ph.D. in Geography [Download PDF]
Second Semester: [Download PDF]
Third Semester: [Download PDF]
Forth Semester: [Download PDF]

4. PROGRAMME SPECIFIC / COURSE OUTCOME


Programme Outcomes (POs), Programme Specific Outcomes (PSOs), Course Outcomes (COs)

  • In-depth Knowledge of Geography: Develops a strong theoretical and practical foundation in physical and human geography, environmental studies, and geospatial technologies.
  • Application of Geographical Tools: Equips students with skills in cartography, remote sensing, GIS, GPS, and statistical analysis for spatial data interpretation and research.
  • Regional and Environmental Awareness: Encourages critical analysis of regional, national, and global environmental and developmental issues.
  • Interdisciplinary Competence: Enhances understanding of geography’s role in interdisciplinary fields like disaster management, urban planning, and climate change studies.
  • Research and Fieldwork Skills: Fosters independent research through field surveys, case studies, and dissertations.

5. CHAIRPERSON


Dr. Basavaraj Bagade
Name: Dr. Basavaraj Bagade
Designation: Coordinator
Email-id: bagadebr@gmail.com
Mobile Number: +91 9620587750
Period of Chairmanship: 2 Years
Resume: [View Resume]

6. FACULTY


Faculty - 1

Dr. Basavaraj Bagade
Full Name: Dr. Basavaraj Bagade
Designation: Assistant Professor
Qualification: M.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., K-SET
Email-id: bagadebr@gmail.com
Mobile: +91 9620587750
Resume: [View Resume]

Faculty - 2

Dr. M B Chalawadi
Full Name: Dr. M B Chalawadi
Designation: Assistant Professor
Qualification: M.A, Ph.D.
Email-id: Mahantbc12@gmail.com
Mobile: +91 9449018935
Resume: [View Resume]

Faculty - 3

Dr. MANJUNATHA. N.K.
Full Name: Dr. MANJUNATHA. N.K.
Designation: Assistant Professor
Qualification: M.Sc., Ph.D., NET
Email-id: nkmanju@rcub.ac.in, manjunathbhoomi100@gmail.com
Mobile: +91 8722865424, +91 8618292695
Resume: [View Resume]

7. RESEARCH


Information about the department's research profile will be updated soon.

Minor Research Project Details

Research Title Faculty Name Funding Agency/Details
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Land Use/Land Cover in Bagalkot District: Using Remote Sensing Techniques Dr. Basavaraj Bagade PMEB, RCU. Completed July 2021
Spatial patterns and variations in literacy and sex ratio in Belagavi District, Karnataka: A study in Gender Geography Dr. Manjunatha N .K. Rani Channamma University. Completed 2020–21
A study of Human Health Risk Assessments around Industrial textile plant and Water treatment process using Electro-catalytic method Rani Channamma University (₹4 Lakh). Completed 2022–23

Details of Corporate Social Responsibility Funding

Funding Source Amount Faculty Coordinator
Ashok Iron Industries, Belagavi ₹7 Lakhs Dr. Basavaraj Bagade
Shri. Hanumanth Neerani, MLC, C-funding ₹5 Lakhs
Generated for international conference from CSR and other Govt agencies ₹25 Lakhs

Note: No data available for Dr. M B Chalawadi.

8. ACTIVITIES (2021-2025)


The Department of Geography is committed to providing a dynamic learning environment. A key initiative was the establishment of the Geoinformatics Laboratory, funded by the Jay Bharath Foundation (Ashok Iron Works Ltd) under CSR. This lab, equipped with 10 laptops, was inaugurated on 30/11/2021 and serves as a hub for teaching and research in GIS, Remote Sensing, and GPS. The department aims to offer a P.G. Diploma in Geoinformatics in collaboration with KSRSAC and NRSA to meet the growing demand for geospatial professionals.

Academic Year: 2024-25

One-day Workshop on Geospatial Technology

Guest Speakers: Dr. Vidya Chougle and Dr. Prashanth Patil (Kolhapur University)

Summary: The Department of Studies in Geography successfully organized a one-day workshop on Geospatial Technology in January 2025. The event aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of students and researchers in emerging geospatial tools and applications. Both resource persons delivered insightful sessions on the latest developments in GIS, remote sensing, and their practical applications in research and planning. The workshop received active participation from postgraduate students, research scholars, and faculty members, making it an enriching academic experience. Dr. Basavaraj Bagade, Coordinator, efficiently coordinated the event.

Academic Year: 2023-24

Environmental Protection Awareness Program

Guest Speaker: Dr. D. K. Kamble, Deputy Registrar, RCU, Belagavi.

Summary: As part of National Integration Week, the Department of Geography organized an "Environmental Protection Day" in Bhootaramanahatti village. Dr. T.K. Kamble addressed students and villagers on the importance of preventing environmental imbalance, water conservation, and forest protection. Geography students performed a street play on environmental conservation. Dr. Basavaraj Bagade welcomed the gathering, Dr. Manjunath N. delivered the vote of thanks, and Shashikala Hande compered the event. PG students, research scholars, and villagers were present.

Academic Year: 2022-23

Special Lecture on Sources of Population Data for Geographical Research

Guest Speaker: Dr. Sanjit Sarkar, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Geography, Central University of Karnataka.

Summary: On 2nd February 2023, the department organized a special lecture where Dr. Sanjit Sarkar delivered an insightful talk on various data sources pivotal for demographic and geographical studies. He emphasized the role of census data, NFHS, SRS, and other datasets in advanced research. The lecture also highlighted methodologies for interpreting secondary data and integrating them with GIS tools. The session was highly interactive, with active participation from PG students and research scholars. Dr. Basavaraj Bagade coordinated the event.

Academic Year: 2021-22

Live Classroom Session on Geoinformatics

Guest Speaker: Dr. Brati Dey, Head Faculty Geoinformatics, Swatik Edustart, Institute of GIS & Remote Sensing, New Delhi.

Summary: The session focused on the practical and theoretical dimensions of Geoinformatics, with an emphasis on spatial data analysis and environmental monitoring. Dr. Dey provided a comprehensive overview of modern tools like QGIS and ERDAS Imagine, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. The event was coordinated by Dr. Basavaraj Bagade and aimed at equipping students with contemporary skills in geospatial technology.

9. FACILITIES


The department is well-equipped with a variety of facilities to support academic and research activities. These include:

  • Survey Instruments: Theodolite, Dumpy Level, Plane Table Survey Set, and GPS (Global Positioning System).
  • Computer Lab: High-performance desktop computers with GIS and Remote Sensing software like ArcGIS, QGIS, and ERDAS Imagine.
  • Laptops: Issued by the department for use in fieldwork and research-related activities.
  • PM USHA Support: Contribution to equipment and infrastructure upgrades under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
  • Geography Instruments: Weather Monitoring Kits, Soil Testing Kits, Clinometers, Prismatic Compass, and Altimeter.
  • Drone Survey Instruments: UAVs/drones with high-resolution cameras, drone mapping software, and Ground Control Points (GCPs). Advanced tools like Total Station further support modern geospatial data collection and analysis.
Practical

Practical

Lab

Lab

10. POLICY DOCUMENTS


PARTICULARS Attach the PDF File
Promotion-of-Research-RCU [Download PDF]
Code-of-Ethics-for-Research-Document [Download PDF]
Consultancy [Download PDF]
Award-of-scholarship-and-free-ship [Download PDF]
Internal-Complaints-Committee [Download PDF]
e-Governance [Download PDF]
Providing-Financial-support-to-Teachers [Download PDF]
Code-of-Ethics [Download PDF]
Green-Campus [Download PDF]
Environment-&-Energy-Usage [Download PDF]
Disabled-friendly-barrier-free-environment [Download PDF]

11. ALUMNI


Alumni Information

Details about alumni activities and contributions can be found in the document here: [Download PDF]

Alumni Coordinator Name: Dr. Manjunath N K.

Alumni Statistics (Pass out Students for past Five Years)

Year M.Sc.
2023-24 20
2022-23 20
2021-22 08
2020-21 07
2019-20 08

Alumni Achievements

Nafisa Naikodi
Name: Nafisa Naikodi
Designation: Assistant Professor
Working for: GFGC K R Pete Women’s Degree College
Email: naikodinafisa@gmail.com
Mobile: 9538854317
Order Copy: [Download]
Suman Kumari
Name: Suman Kumari
Designation: PHD Research Scholar, Dept. of Geography-RCUB
Email: sumanpatel640@gmail.com
JRF Letter: [Download]

12. CONTACT US


Department Contact Information

Department Postal Address: Coordinator, Department of Studies and Research in Geography, Rani Channamma University, Vidyasangama, National Highway-04, At/P: Bhootaramanahatti, Belagavi: 591156, Karnataka
Office Phone: 081-2565229
Email-id: geographydept@rcub.ac.in