

B-SC in Botany at SMT. DEVKIBA MOHANSINHJI CHAUHAN COLLEGE OF COMMERCE AND SCIENCE


Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
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About the Specialization
What is Botany at SMT. DEVKIBA MOHANSINHJI CHAUHAN COLLEGE OF COMMERCE AND SCIENCE Dadra & Nagar Haveli?
This B.Sc. Botany program at LIONS CLUB OF SILVASSA CHARITABLE TRUST''''S SMT DEVKIBA MOHANSINHJI CHAUHAN COLLEGE focuses on the scientific study of plants, covering their structure, function, ecology, genetics, and economic importance. In the Indian context, with its rich biodiversity and agricultural economy, Botany plays a vital role in food security, environmental conservation, and pharmaceutical research, addressing crucial national needs.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates passionate about the natural world, plant life, and environmental sustainability. It suits aspiring researchers, conservationists, agriculture scientists, and those interested in biotechnology or plant-based industries. Students seeking foundational knowledge for advanced studies in botanical sciences or related fields will find this course highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as plant scientists, botanists, agricultural consultants, environmentalists, and horticulturists. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with growth opportunities in government sectors, research institutions, and private industries. The program also prepares students for competitive exams and higher education like M.Sc. and Ph.D.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Knowledge in Plant Diversity- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding the classification, characteristics, and life cycles of various plant groups. Attend all practical sessions diligently, paying close attention to specimen identification and experimental procedures. Maintain detailed lab records to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (e.g., standard Indian botany texts), Lab manuals, College herbarium, Online resources like YouTube channels for plant identification, VNSGU question papers
Career Connection
A solid foundation in plant diversity is crucial for careers in taxonomy, conservation, and ecological studies, enabling accurate species identification and understanding ecosystems, vital for roles in Forest Departments and research.
Develop Effective Scientific Observation and Drawing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice meticulous observation of plant specimens under microscopes and in the field. Hone scientific drawing skills to accurately represent structures, which is key for botanical documentation. Seek feedback from professors on drawing precision.
Tools & Resources
Compound and dissecting microscopes, Drawing sheets, Sharp pencils, Field guides for local flora, Online tutorials for botanical illustration
Career Connection
Essential for roles in plant taxonomy, pharmaceutical research (pharmacognosy), and scientific illustration, ensuring precise documentation and communication of scientific findings.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, share notes, and quiz each other on identification and theoretical concepts. Teach difficult concepts to others to solidify your own understanding.
Tools & Resources
College library study rooms, Online collaborative tools (Google Docs), Previous year''''s exam papers for group problem-solving
Career Connection
Enhances communication and teamwork skills, valuable in any scientific research or professional setting requiring collaborative problem-solving. Builds a strong academic support network.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Ecological Principles Through Field Visits- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in all departmental field trips to observe plant communities, adaptations, and ecological interactions in natural habitats. Take detailed notes and photographs. Proactively seek to understand how theoretical concepts apply in real-world Indian ecosystems.
Tools & Resources
Field guides, GPS-enabled smartphone apps for location data, Binoculars, College ecological survey equipment
Career Connection
Direct experience with ecological principles is vital for environmental consulting, conservation biology, and forest management roles in India, providing practical skills for environmental impact assessments.
Master Experimental Techniques in Plant Physiology- (Semester 3-4)
Pay close attention during plant physiology practicals, understanding the setup, execution, and interpretation of experiments related to photosynthesis, respiration, and water relations. Document experimental protocols thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Standard laboratory equipment, Physiology manuals, Online videos demonstrating plant physiological experiments, Research papers on plant metabolism
Career Connection
Develops critical lab skills essential for research and development roles in agricultural industries, biotechnology firms, and academic research labs focused on crop improvement and plant stress physiology.
Participate in Inter-College Quizzes and Competitions- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek out and participate in botany-related quizzes, seminars, and poster presentation competitions organized by the college or other institutions. This broadens knowledge, improves presentation skills, and builds confidence.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, College website for event announcements, General knowledge books on biology, Subject-specific encyclopedias
Career Connection
Boosts critical thinking and public speaking abilities, which are highly valued in scientific communication, academic roles, and professional interactions in the Indian scientific community.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Minor Research Project or Internship- (Semester 5-6)
Identify a faculty mentor and pursue a minor research project, focusing on an area of interest like plant biotechnology, economic botany, or plant pathology. Alternatively, seek an internship at a local research institute, botanical garden, or pharmaceutical company.
Tools & Resources
College research labs, VNSGU research guidelines, Local industry contacts, Scientific journals (e.g., Indian Journal of Botany), Grant writing resources
Career Connection
Provides invaluable hands-on research experience, develops problem-solving skills, and builds a professional network, significantly enhancing employability for research, R&D, and higher studies in India.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations and Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Begin preparing for postgraduate entrance exams like NET, GATE (for related fields), or university-specific M.Sc. entrance exams. Focus on revising core botany concepts and practicing previous year''''s question papers.
Tools & Resources
Entrance exam study guides, Online coaching platforms, Previous year question papers for M.Sc. Botany, Reference books
Career Connection
Crucial for securing admission to top M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in India, leading to academic, research, and specialized roles in national scientific organizations.
Develop Communication and Professional Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Work on improving scientific writing, presentation skills, and professional etiquette. Attend workshops on resume building, interview techniques, and career planning. Network with alumni and industry professionals through college events.
Tools & Resources
College career guidance cell, Communication skills workshops, LinkedIn for networking, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Essential for successful job applications, interviews, and professional growth in any sector. Strong communication skills are highly sought after by Indian employers in both scientific and non-scientific roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- H.S.C. (10+2) with Science Stream or its equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 40 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-101 | Diversity of Microbes and Cryptogams (Algae, Fungi, Lichens & Bryophytes) | Core Theory | 2 | Bacteria, Viruses, Algae, Fungi, Lichens, Bryophytes |
| BOT-102 | Diversity of Cryptogams (Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms and Palaeobotany) | Core Theory | 2 | Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Palaeobotany |
| BOT-103 (P) | Practical of BOT-101 & BOT-102 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Microbes, Algae, Fungi, Lichens, Bryophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-201 | Anatomy and Embryology of Angiosperms | Core Theory | 2 | Plant Body Organization, Tissue System, Stem and Root Anatomy, Secondary Growth, Flower Morphology, Embryology |
| BOT-202 | Taxonomy of Angiosperms | Core Theory | 2 | Plant Classification, Systems of Classification, Nomenclature, Bentham & Hooker''''s System, Families of Angiosperms |
| BOT-203 (P) | Practical of BOT-201 & BOT-202 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Angiosperm Anatomy, Embryology, Taxonomy |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-301 | Plant Ecology | Core Theory | 2 | Ecosystem, Plant Adaptation, Ecological Factors, Population Ecology, Ecological Succession, Biodiversity |
| BOT-302 | Plant Physiology | Core Theory | 2 | Plant Water Relations, Mineral Nutrition, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Plant Growth Regulators |
| BOT-303 (P) | Practical of BOT-301 & BOT-302 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Plant Ecology, Plant Physiology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-401 | Genetics and Plant Breeding | Core Theory | 2 | Mendelian Genetics, Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance, Gene Interaction, Plant Breeding Methods, Hybridization |
| BOT-402 | Cell and Molecular Biology | Core Theory | 2 | Cell Structure, Cell Organelles, Cell Cycle, DNA Structure, Gene Expression, Genetic Engineering |
| BOT-403 (P) | Practical of BOT-401 & BOT-402 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Genetics, Plant Breeding, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-501 | Economic Botany | Core Theory | 2 | Food Plants, Fibre Yielding Plants, Medicinal Plants, Timber Plants, Spices and Condiments |
| BOT-502 | Environmental Botany | Core Theory | 2 | Environmental Pollution, Air Pollution, Water Pollution, Soil Pollution, Waste Management, Conservation |
| BOT-503 | Plant Biotechnology | Core Theory | 2 | Tissue Culture, Genetic Transformation, Protoplast Culture, Micropropagation, Gene Cloning |
| BOT-504 (P) | Practical of BOT-501, BOT-502 & BOT-503 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Economic Botany, Environmental Botany, Plant Biotechnology |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT-601 | Phytochemistry and Pharmacognosy | Core Theory | 2 | Primary Metabolites, Secondary Metabolites, Alkaloids, Glycosides, Volatile Oils, Crude Drugs |
| BOT-602 | Research Methodology and Biostatistics | Core Theory | 2 | Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability, Hypothesis Testing |
| BOT-603 | Plant Pathology | Core Theory | 2 | Disease Symptoms, Etiology, Plant Pathogens, Disease Cycle, Disease Control, Management Strategies |
| BOT-604 (P) | Practical of BOT-601, BOT-602 & BOT-603 | Core Practical | 2 | Practical based on Phytochemistry, Pharmacognosy, Research Methodology, Biostatistics, Plant Pathology |




