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BA in Political Science at Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya
South Andaman, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya South Andaman?
This Political Science program at Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Pondicherry University, focuses on equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and processes, with a strong emphasis on Indian governance and global politics. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking about power, justice, and societal structures, addressing the dynamic needs of public policy, administration, and international relations within the Indian context and globally.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring civil servants, political analysts, journalists, and educators. It attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into government service, research organizations, NGOs, or think tanks. Students interested in social reform, public discourse, and understanding democratic institutions will find this specialization enriching, building foundational knowledge for postgraduate studies in political science, law, or public administration.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government services (UPSC, SPSC), political consulting firms, media houses, and non-profit organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth potential in specialized roles or through competitive examinations. The strong theoretical foundation also prepares students for academic careers and policy advocacy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Constitutional Basics and Political Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the Indian Constitution, its amendments, and the fundamental concepts of political theory. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas like liberty, equality, and justice, relating them to current events. Regularly read a national newspaper to connect theoretical concepts with real-world political processes.
Tools & Resources
Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, The Hindu/Indian Express editorials, NCERT Political Science textbooks (Classes 11-12)
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/SPSC and for analytical roles in journalism or policy research.
Develop Academic Writing and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and verbal communication. Participate actively in debates and presentations. Seek feedback on your assignments to refine your arguments and clarity of expression. Join an English speaking or debate club if available.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), Grammarly, Toastmasters (if available locally)
Career Connection
Effective communication is paramount for civil services, policy advocacy, media, and academic pursuits.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize the Generic Elective courses to explore subjects like History, Economics, or Sociology. This broadens your perspective and helps understand the multi-faceted nature of political phenomena. Read introductory texts from these related fields.
Tools & Resources
Introductory textbooks in related social sciences, MOOC platforms like Coursera/edX for foundational courses
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary approach enhances problem-solving skills, making you a more versatile candidate for various roles in policy and research.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Insight into Governance and Administration- (Semester 3-4)
Actively follow current affairs related to public administration, policy implementation, and international relations. Seek opportunities to attend local government meetings or public lectures on governance issues. Consider volunteering with local NGOs to understand ground-level challenges.
Tools & Resources
Press Information Bureau (PIB) India, PRS Legislative Research website, Local NGOs for volunteering
Career Connection
Practical exposure is invaluable for understanding public policy dynamics, essential for roles in governance and development sectors.
Specialize in Areas of Interest through Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose your Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) and Generic Electives to build a niche. For example, if interested in research, opt for ''''Public Opinion and Survey Research''''. Deep dive into the selected topics through additional readings and projects.
Tools & Resources
Research papers via Google Scholar, Specialized books on chosen topics, Online courses on data analysis for survey research
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles in think tanks, research, or international organizations.
Network and Participate in Academic Events- (Semester 3-4)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the Political Science department or other institutions. Network with faculty, visiting scholars, and peers. Participate in inter-college quizzes, essay competitions, or model UN events.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards for events, Professional social media platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and awareness of career paths, while competitions hone critical thinking.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Research Projects and Dissertations- (Semester 5-6)
Work closely with faculty on independent research projects or your dissertation. Choose a topic that aligns with your career aspirations and allows for in-depth analysis. Learn to formulate research questions, collect data, and write academic papers.
Tools & Resources
Access to university library resources, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for basic analysis), Mendeley/Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
High-quality research experience is critical for postgraduate studies, academic roles, and policy analysis positions.
Intensify Competitive Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
If aiming for civil services or other government jobs, begin intensive preparation. Enroll in coaching classes if needed, solve previous year''''s papers, and practice answer writing for subjects like Public Administration or Political Science.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/SPSC previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms, Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Targeted preparation significantly increases chances of success in highly competitive Indian government examinations.
Seek Internships and Career Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Actively look for internships in government departments, NGOs, political parties, or media houses. Leverage faculty connections or alumni networks. Seek mentorship from professionals in your desired field to gain insights into industry expectations and career planning.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn for internships, Alumni network events, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial practical experience and industry contacts, often leading to pre-placement offers or informed career decisions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board (as per Pondicherry University''''s general undergraduate admission norms)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 104 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Citizenship, Democracy and State |
| PS CC2 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Organs of Government: Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism and Decentralization |
| AECC1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources and Ecosystems, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Environmental Ethics and Human Population |
| GE1 | Generic Elective - I (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Introduction to chosen discipline, Fundamental concepts, Key theories, Basic applications, Societal relevance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC3 | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates | Core | 4 | Key concepts: Power, State, Sovereignty, Theories of Justice: Rawls, Nozick, Democracy: Theories and Models, Gender and Politics, Nationalism and Multiculturalism |
| PS CC4 | Political Processes in India | Core | 4 | Party System and Electoral Process, Caste, Religion, and Class in Indian Politics, Regionalism and Secessionist Movements, Emergence of New Social Movements, Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Governance |
| AECC2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills: Paragraphs, Essays, Listening and Speaking Skills, Public Speaking and Presentation |
| GE2 | Generic Elective - II (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Advanced topics in chosen discipline, Methodologies and techniques, Contemporary issues, Interdisciplinary connections, Case studies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC5 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Methods of Comparative Analysis, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems and Party Systems, Federalism and Decentralization |
| PS CC6 | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core | 4 | Public Administration as a Discipline, Classical and Human Relations Theories, Decision-Making and Communication, Bureaucracy and Accountability, Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation |
| PS CC7 | Perspectives on International Relations and World History | Core | 4 | Evolution of International Relations as a Discipline, Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Globalization and its Impact, Role of United Nations |
| SEC1 | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Nature of Public Opinion, Methods of Measuring Public Opinion, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection and Analysis, Ethics of Survey Research |
| GE3 | Generic Elective - III (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Specialized topics in chosen discipline, Research methodologies, Practical applications, Ethical considerations, Current debates |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC8 | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core | 4 | Democracy and Authoritarianism, Party Systems and Electoral Behavior, Federalism and Unitary Systems, Legislatures, Executives, and Judiciaries, Role of the State in Comparative Context |
| PS CC9 | Public Policy and Administration in India | Core | 4 | Public Policy: Meaning and Approaches, Policy Cycle: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Planning and Economic Reforms in India, Good Governance Initiatives, Decentralization and Local Governance |
| PS CC10 | Global Politics | Core | 4 | International System: Historical Context, Globalization and its Dimensions, International Organizations: UN, WTO, Non-State Actors: MNCs, NGOs, Contemporary Global Issues: Terrorism, Environment, Human Rights |
| SEC2 | Legislative Practices and Procedures | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Parliamentary Procedures, How a Bill Becomes a Law, Role of Parliamentary Committees, Budgetary Process, Debates and Question Hour |
| GE4 | Generic Elective - IV (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Advanced research in chosen discipline, Dissertation or project work, Professional ethics, Emerging trends, Career applications |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC11 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Citizenship, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality and Politics, Hobbes: Social Contract, Absolute Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| PS CC12 | Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra: Statecraft, Dharma and Dandaniti, Buddhist and Jain Political Ideas, Emergence of Modern Indian Thought |
| PS DSE1 | Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, International Human Rights Regimes, Human Rights in India, Challenges to Human Rights, Role of State and Civil Society |
| PS DSE2 | India’s Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Relations with Major Powers, India and its Neighbors, India in Global Governance |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS CC13 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | John Stuart Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Antonio Gramsci: Hegemony, State and Civil Society, Hannah Arendt: Totalitarianism, Public and Private, John Rawls: Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance |
| PS CC14 | Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Reforms and Modernity, Mahatma Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Ahimsa, B.R. Ambedkar: Caste, Social Justice, Constitutionalism, Jawaharlal Nehru: Socialism, Secularism, Non-alignment, Savarkar: Hindutva, Nationalism |
| PS DSE3 | Feminism: Theory and Practice | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Introduction to Feminist Thought, Liberal, Radical, Marxist Feminism, Gender and Patriarchy, Feminist Movements in India, Gender, Development, and State |
| PS DSE4 | Dilemmas in International Relations | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Contemporary Challenges in Global Politics, Security Dilemmas and Arms Control, Global Poverty and Inequality, Climate Change and Environmental Governance, Humanitarian Intervention and Sovereignty |
