Established in the year 2000, the Department of Environmental Science began offering M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in 2001 and 2002 respectively, under the leadership of Prof. A.R. Yousuf. Since its inception, the Department has played a pivotal role in delivering high-quality interdisciplinary education, research, consultancy, and outreach. Our faculty comprises young, dynamic, and dedicated professionals committed to academic excellence and guiding both students and research scholars. We are proud of our standing as a distinguished department that fosters an environment of growth, learning, and success.

Environmental Science, which touches every aspect of human existence, has become increasingly significant in the Anthropocene era. Our curriculum is comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects such as Environmental Pollution, Chemistry, Geoscience, Toxicology, Microbiology, Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management, Atmospheric Sciences, Sustainable Development, Mountain Ecology, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Law, Biotechnology, and more. The program is enriched by intensive lab and fieldwork, including ecological tours across the country. From the outset, the Department has evolved into a centre of excellence for environmental education and research, with a focus on regionally, nationally, and globally relevant issues. Our research spans diverse aspects of the environment—physical, chemical, biological, and cultural—highlighting the deep connection between humans and the environment, and reinforcing the importance of the discipline.

Beyond academics, the Department aspires to lead in environmental research. We have made significant contributions to the field, with 502 postgraduates and 109 scholars having earned M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees. 139 students have qualified for JRF/NET/SET exams, with two Inspire Fellowships and seven (7) WOS Fellowships awarded to our researchers. Our strong placement record reflects the high demand for our programs, particularly in comparison to other science departments. More than 60% of our postgraduates are employed, primarily in education sectors under the JK Government. Our achievements include securing research grants from premier funding agencies such as DST, DST-SERB, NMHS-MoEF&CC, MHRD, JKDST, and the J&K Government. These accomplishments span across faculty, students, and scholars. The demand for our postgraduate program continues to rise due to these consistent successes.

Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of our training, evident through extensive fieldwork, outreach initiatives, and educational tours. The Department also extends technical expertise and environmental analysis services to various institutions. Our research is socially relevant, locally responsive, nationally significant, and globally impactful—informing state-level policy decisions. In the last decade, we have secured research funding totaling Rs. 8.86 crores, in addition to Rs.1.16 crores in women-specific fellowships and Rs. 35.4 lakhs through consultancy projects over the past 12 years. Our impressive research portfolio includes 419 publications in high-impact journals, 24 book chapters, and 11 proceedings and monographs. Our laboratories are well- equipped with advanced instruments, supporting research in areas such as water and air pollution, freshwater ecosystems, waste management, microplastics, soil studies, climate change, and related fields. Given the evolving environmental and economic landscape, faculty and researchers are encouraged to pursue consultancy projects, extending the practical impact of their research. These projects contribute significantly to industrial growth, environmental protection, and sustainable development, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. Our consultancy services have supported major initiatives including environmental assessments for hydroelectric projects, industrial estates, road and ropeway projects, and town development schemes.

We invite all stakeholders to collaborate with us in advancing the mission of our Department. Together, we can inspire future generations of environmental scientists and make meaningful contributions to protecting our planet. Let us commit to environmental responsibility and work towards a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Vision

To strive for excellence in teaching, research, consultancy and policy formulation for environmental protection and management

Mission

To educate and train students as next-generation thinkers, decision makers and problem solvers in the field of Environmental Science

Core Values

  • Environmental Consciousness and Stewardship
  • Environmental Leadership and Justice
  • Science-Policy-Society Connect
  • Professionalism, Creativity and Integrity