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B-A-PROGRAMME in Bengali Discipline And Political Science at Kirori Mal College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Bengali Discipline and Political Science at Kirori Mal College Delhi?
This Bengali Discipline and Political Science program at Kirori Mal College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of both Bengali language, literature, and culture, alongside the intricacies of political systems, theories, and governance. It combines linguistic and cultural immersion with critical analysis of state, power, and society, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s dynamic public and cultural spheres. The program is designed to cultivate analytical thinking and communication skills, providing a robust liberal arts foundation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about India''''s rich linguistic diversity and complex political landscape. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or cultural preservation roles. Individuals interested in a robust liberal arts foundation, keen on understanding Indian democracy and cultural narratives, will find this program rewarding. It also appeals to career changers transitioning into fields requiring strong analytical and communication capabilities, without strict prerequisite backgrounds.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (UPSC/state PSCs), journalism, content writing, translation, public relations, policy research, teaching, and cultural management. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential in government, media, and academic sectors. Graduates are well-prepared for higher education in Political Science, Bengali, International Relations, Public Administration, or related interdisciplinary fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Concepts in Both Disciplines- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently study core theories in Political Science (e.g., justice, liberty) and historical literary movements in Bengali. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas and utilize library resources extensively for both subjects. Attend introductory workshops on academic writing and research methodologies offered by the college.
Tools & Resources
Kirori Mal College Library, University of Delhi Library resources, Online Academic Journals (JSTOR, EPW, Project MUSE), Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation ensures clarity for advanced studies and provides the intellectual bedrock for careers in academia, policy, civil services, and media, significantly aiding in competitive examinations.
Enhance Language and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in debates, public speaking events, and essay writing competitions organized by college societies. Focus on improving both written and spoken Bengali and English communication. Utilize college language clubs for literary discussions and political discourse, broadening linguistic and expressive capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Debating and Literary Societies of KMC, Newspaper subscriptions (The Hindu, Indian Express, AnandaBazar Patrika), Online language learning platforms
Career Connection
Superior communication is vital for success in journalism, civil services, public relations, and academic roles, enhancing performance in interviews and professional engagements.
Engage with Co-curricular and Departmental Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Join cultural societies related to dramatics, poetry recitation, or political awareness groups within Kirori Mal College. Attend guest lectures and seminars regularly organized by the Bengali and Political Science departments. This broadens perspective, provides practical exposure, and fosters interdisciplinary understanding.
Tools & Resources
KMC Societies (e.g., Players, Natya), Departmental Seminars, Cultural Festivals, Inter-college Competitions
Career Connection
Develops essential soft skills, expands networking opportunities within and outside the college, and builds a holistic profile, making graduates well-rounded candidates for diverse professional fields in India.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Seek opportunities for short-term research projects with faculty members in areas like Indian politics, regional literature, or cultural studies. Actively look for internships with NGOs, policy think tanks in Delhi, local government bodies, or Bengali media houses/publishing houses to gain practical experience and apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Mentorship, NGOs (e.g., ActionAid India, PRADAN), Think tanks (e.g., Observer Research Foundation, Centre for Policy Research), Local Bengali News Outlets
Career Connection
Practical experience and research exposure significantly strengthen your CV for postgraduate studies or direct entry into research and policy-oriented roles, which is particularly beneficial for civil service aspirants.
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully select Generic Electives (GE) and Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) that complement your core disciplines or provide additional career-relevant skills. Consider subjects like economics, data analysis basics, journalism ethics, or public policy to build a unique and focused skill set aligned with career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
Academic Advisors at KMC, University of Delhi Course Catalog, Online courses (Coursera, NPTEL, edX for specialized skills)
Career Connection
Builds a unique and interdisciplinary skill set, enhancing employability in niche areas like political consulting, cultural documentation, specialized journalism, or policy advocacy in India.
Network and Participate in Academic Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Actively attend and, if possible, present papers at student conferences or workshops, particularly in Delhi, which is a significant hub for political and cultural discourse. Connect with peers, faculty, and professionals from both the Political Science and Bengali literary fields to expand your intellectual and professional network.
Tools & Resources
Delhi University Conferences, JNU/JMI Seminars, LinkedIn, Professional Associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association, Sahitya Akademi)
Career Connection
Expands your professional network, opens doors to collaborative opportunities, and establishes your academic presence, which is crucial for higher studies and impactful roles in policy, media, and culture.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Higher Studies/Civil Services- (Semester 5-6)
Devote significant time to preparing for postgraduate entrance exams for MA in Political Science, Bengali, or related fields. Simultaneously, focus on competitive examinations like UPSC CSE or state PSCs, emphasizing current affairs, analytical writing, and specific subject knowledge required for these highly sought-after careers in India.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC Coaching Centers (if opted), Previous Year Question Papers, Current Affairs Magazines and Newspapers, NCERT Books and standard reference texts
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for India''''s most prestigious career paths in academia, government, and policy-making, significantly increasing success rates in competitive and postgraduate entrance examinations.
Develop Advanced Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Work on a capstone project, dissertation, or an advanced research paper that integrates both Political Science and Bengali perspectives. Examples include analyzing political discourse in modern Bengali literature, studying the role of language in identity politics in Bengal, or examining cultural policy. Seek mentorship from senior faculty members.
Tools & Resources
Research Guides and Academic Mentors, Statistical Software (basic usage if applicable, e.g., for survey analysis), Advanced Literary/Political Theory Texts, Institutional Data Repositories
Career Connection
Showcases advanced analytical, critical thinking, and research capabilities, which are essential for roles in academic research, policy analysis, strategic communications, and doctoral studies.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Seek Placements- (Semester 5-6)
Compile a comprehensive portfolio of your best academic essays, research papers, translation works, creative writing pieces, and project reports from internships. Actively engage with Kirori Mal College''''s placement cell for job opportunities in media, NGOs, teaching, content creation, or administrative roles that value your unique interdisciplinary background and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
KMC Placement Cell, Career Counselling Services, Online Portfolio Platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, personal website), Professional Resume/CV Builders
Career Connection
Directly facilitates entry into the professional world by effectively showcasing your practical skills, academic achievements, and interdisciplinary expertise, leading to successful job placements across various sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board, with a minimum percentage/criteria as prescribed by the University of Delhi for B.A. Programme admissions.
Duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
Credits: 132-160 credits (as per UGCF 2022 guidelines for a 3-year undergraduate degree, dependent on elective choices) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (Internal Assessment, typically includes assignments, presentations, projects, class tests, attendance), External: 75% (End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSC-PS-101 | Understanding Political Theory | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | What is Political Theory, Theories of the State, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Citizenship, Democracy and its forms |
| BA-DSC-BN-101 | History of Bengali Literature (Early Period) | Discipline Specific Core (Bengali) | 4 | Old Bengali Literature (Charyapada), Medieval Bengali Literature, Vaishnava Padavali, Mangal Kavyas, Development of Prose |
| AEC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Course (AEC) | 4 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Ethics |
| VAC-1 | Constitutional Values & Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | The Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, Constitutionalism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSC-PS-102 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | The Constituent Assembly, Philosophy of the Constitution, Organs of Government (Executive, Legislature, Judiciary), Federalism in India, Emergency Provisions |
| BA-DSC-BN-102 | Bengali Poetry (Medieval and Modern) | Discipline Specific Core (Bengali) | 4 | Michael Madhusudan Dutt, Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, Modernist Poets, Post-Independence Poetry |
| AEC-2 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Course (AEC) | 4 | Language and Communication, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Listening and Speaking, Grammar and Vocabulary |
| VAC-2 | Ethics and Values in Ancient Indian Traditions | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Concept of Dharma, Karma and Rebirth, Values in Vedas and Upanishads, Jainism and Buddhism Ethics, Artha, Kama, Moksha |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSC-PS-103 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Typologies of Regimes, Electoral Systems, Parties and Party Systems, Globalisation and Comparative Politics |
| BA-DSC-BN-103 | Bengali Prose and Drama | Discipline Specific Core (Bengali) | 4 | Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Dinabandhu Mitra''''s Plays, Rabindranath Tagore''''s Plays, Modern Bengali Drama |
| SEC-1 | Basic Computer Applications | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Operating Systems, Word Processing, Spreadsheet Applications, Presentation Tools, Internet and Email |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective 1 (e.g., Introduction to Psychology) | Generic Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Psychology, Perception and Sensation, Learning and Memory, Motivation and Emotion, Personality Theories |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSC-PS-104 | Political Processes and Institutions in India | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Parties and Party System in India, Elections and Electoral Reforms, Caste, Religion and Politics, Regionalism and Language, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| BA-DSC-BN-104 | Indian Poetics and Literary Criticism | Discipline Specific Core (Bengali) | 4 | Rasa Theory, Alankara and Riti, Dhvani Theory, Vakrokti Theory, Sahitya Darpan and Kavyaprakasha |
| SEC-2 | Soft Skills and Personality Development | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Time Management, Conflict Resolution, Interview Skills |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective 2 (e.g., Principles of Microeconomics) | Generic Elective | 4 | Demand and Supply, Consumer Behaviour, Production and Costs, Market Structures, Market Failures |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSE-PS-105 | Public Administration in India | Discipline Specific Elective (Political Science) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Bureaucracy in India, Development Administration, Public Policy, Good Governance |
| BA-DSE-PS-106 | International Relations | Discipline Specific Elective (Political Science) | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, UN and Global Governance, India''''s Foreign Policy, Regional Organizations |
| BA-DSE-BN-105 | Bengali Short Stories and Novels | Discipline Specific Elective (Bengali) | 4 | Rabindranath Tagore''''s Short Stories, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay''''s Works, Manik Bandyopadhyay, Tarashankar Bandyopadhyay, Contemporary Bengali Novels |
| BA-DSE-BN-106 | Folk Literature of Bengal | Discipline Specific Elective (Bengali) | 4 | Bangla Proverb and Riddle, Folk Tales and Legends, Jatra and Pula, Folk Songs (Baul, Bhatiali), Folklore Research Methodology |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-DSE-PS-107 | Human Rights, Gender, and Environment | Discipline Specific Elective (Political Science) | 4 | Theories of Human Rights, Gender and Politics, Environmental Movements, Climate Change Politics, Sustainable Development |
| BA-DSE-PS-108 | Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India | Discipline Specific Elective (Political Science) | 4 | Models of Development, Poverty and Inequality, Social Movements (Farmer, Dalit, Women), Liberalization and Globalization, Governance and Development |
| BA-DSE-BN-107 | Literary Translation: Theory and Practice | Discipline Specific Elective (Bengali) | 4 | Theories of Translation, Types of Translation, Challenges in Literary Translation, Cultural Context in Translation, Translation Practice with Texts |
| BA-DSE-BN-108 | Contemporary Bengali Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Bengali) | 4 | Post-Tagore Era Literature, Modern Trends in Fiction, Experimental Poetry, Emerging Literary Voices, Bengali Diaspora Literature |
