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Dated: 11/12/2025 Southfield College, Darjeeling, marked an important academic milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Southfield College and the Integrated Institute of Advanced Research and Information (IIARI), Kolkata. The ceremony was held on 11th December 2025 at the Department of Geography in the presence of faculty members, students of Southfield College, and invited guests from IIARI. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Sujata Baraily, Head of the Department of Geography. She warmly greeted the Principal of Southfield College, Dr. Anuradha Rai, IQAC Coordinator Mr. Bishal Chettri, faculty members, students, and the visiting representatives from IIARI. The MoU reflects a shared commitment to promoting joint research initiatives, academic exchange, professional collaboration, and capacity-building activities, all aimed at enriching the academic environment and fostering research culture within the college. Southfield College was honoured by the presence of Sri Rahul Chakrobarty, Director of IIARI, Kolkata, accompanied by Ms. N. Sen. The formal signing of the MoU was carried out by Principal Dr. Anuradha Rai and Director Sri Rahul Chakrobarty, followed by the exchange of documents between the two institutions. After the signing, the Director addressed the gathering, highlighting the mission and academic contributions of IIARI. Principal Dr. Anuradha Rai also spoke on the significance of the collaboration and expressed her appreciation for this new partnership. The programme concluded with a warm Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Namrata Tamang. This MoU marks the beginning of a promising and fruitful academic collaboration between Southfield College and IIARI.

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Report on the Inauguration of the Newly Constructed RUSA Building Southfield College, Darjeeling Date: 11 December 2025 | Time: 10:00 AM The newly constructed RUSA Building of Southfield College, Darjeeling, was formally inaugurated on 11 December 2025 at 10:00 AM in an event marked by dignity and significance. The building was inaugurated by Sri Prithiraj Chakraborty, Assistant Director (Accounts), Dr. Sambuddha Ghosh, Assistant DPI, Government of West Bengal, and Dr. Partha Gangopadhyay, Department of English, Darjeeling Government College by cutting the ribbon. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Dr. Anuradha Rai, Principal, Southfield College, along with all teaching and non-teaching staff members and a large gathering of enthusiastic students. The dignitaries expressed their appreciation for the infrastructure enhancement under the RUSA scheme and highlighted its role in strengthening academic quality and institutional growth. This inauguration also marked the second day of the scheduled RUSA Inspection, during which the inspection team continued to assess infrastructure, academic preparedness, and the college’s progress under RUSA guidelines. A formal lunch brought the programme to a pleasant close.

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Event Report :The Principal of Southfield College, Darjeeling, Dr. Anuradha Rai, invited Prof. Dr. Dipsikha Acharya and Prof. Dr. Verma Priyadarshini to deliver lectures for the P.G. students of Semester I & III in the History department.Before the lecture began, both Prof. Dr. Dipsikha Acharya and Prof. Dr. Verma Priyadarshini were felicitated by the following faculty members from the Department of History, Southfield College Darjeeling.1. Dr. Dinesh Chandra Ray, Associate Professor & HOD.2. Dr. Srikanta Roy Chowdhury, Associate Professor.3. Diki Ongmu Bhutia, Assistant Professor.4. Dewakar Thatal, Assistant Professor.Following the felicitation, Prof. Dr. Dipsikha Acharya delivered a comprehensive lecture on Archaeology, covering subtopics such as archaeological methods, historical significance of key sites, and the role of archaeology in understanding ancient civilizations.Prof. Dr. Verma Priyadarshini, on the other hand, delivered a lecture on Indian Architecture, discussing various styles, historical influences, and notable architectural monuments in India.Both sessions were well-received by the students, who appreciated the clarity and depth of the lectures. Both lectures were relevant to the curriculum and provided valuable insights into the subjects.The HOD, Dr. Dinesh Chandra Ray, arranged tea and snacks for all attendees.The students of the Post Graduate Department of History at Southfield College are really thankful and indebted to everyone involved in organizing the lectures, including the Principal, the two honourable resource persons, and the faculty members of the History Department.Report By – Ms Trisala Gurung.3rd Semester P.G. Student.Department of History.Vice – President, Student’s Council.Southfield College Darjeeling .

Dated: 26/11/2025 The Postgraduate Department of Geography, Southfield College, Darjeeling, organised a Felicitation Programme on 26th November 2025 to honour Dr. Sherap Bhutia (WBES), Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Geography, Darjeeling Government College. The event recognised his significant academic contributions and his dedicated service to Southfield College, where he has guided postgraduate students with exceptional commitment. Dr. Bhutia is an eminent scholar whose book on social issues was cited by the Lok Sabha for preparing a reference note for the Parliament of India. He has authored numerous research papers in reputed national and international journals, contributed chapters to edited volumes, and delivered several seminar presentations, including invited lectures. His academic leadership includes organising national and international conferences, serving on global organising committees, and contributing as an editorial board member and reviewer for esteemed journals. His outstanding achievements have earned him several national and academic honours. The programme was graciously hosted by Miss Aradhana Roka, Class Representative of PG 3rd Semester, and attended by faculty members and postgraduate students. Dr. Sujata Baraily (Head of the Department of Geography) along with Ms. Raka Shree Rai and Mr. Bishal Chettri ( IQAC-Coordinator) conveyed their sincere appreciation and congratulated Dr. Bhutia for his exemplary service to the discipline of Geography. The event concluded with warm applause, acknowledging his distinguished academic journey. The department also extended its best wishes to Dr. Bhutia as he prepares to assume his new role as the Principal of Mirik College, marking yet another milestone in his illustrious career.

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Event Report: “From Waste to Resource: Promoting Zero Waste Practices in Darjeeling Hills”. A significant workshop titled “From Waste to Resource: Promoting Zero Waste Practices in Darjeeling Hills” was successfully conducted on 25th November 2025 at Damien Hall, Southfield College. The event was organized by SaciWATERs in collaboration with the Darjeeling Municipality, TIEEDI, and local community partners, with support from the UMI Fund and Social Nest. The workshop aimed to address the critical environmental challenges facing the region and to draft a roadmap for a zero-waste future. Students from Southfield College actively participated in the event, with volunteers from the Nature Club, Southfield College ( PG 1st Semester students, Department of geography) playing a key role. Trisala Gurung, Vice President of the Students’ Council and a Nature Club member, served as the Emcee for the day and was one of the participats of Panel Discussion titled “Scaling Zero Waste Across Wards” as a Youth Representative. The programme commenced with a solemn Lighting of the Lamp ceremony. The session was graced by a host of distinguished dignitaries, including: *Dr. Anuradha Rai, Principal, Southfield College, – Prof. Dhaniraj ,Chettri, Retired Professor, Depat. Of Botany, Sikkim University. – Ma’am Dechen Chimi Wangdi, Secretary, Darjeeling Welfare Society – Representing Darjeeling Municipality, Ward Commissioner from Ward Number 7, Sri Bishu Malla. – Dr. Sujata Baraily, Associate Professor, Department of geography Southfield College and Coordinator-Nature Club, Southfield College, – Lt.Gyanshree Pradhan, Assistant professor, Department of Political science and Member ,Nature Club, Southfield College. The organizers extended their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Anuradha Rai, Principal of Southfield College, for her generosity in granting permission to use the Damien Hall as the venue for the workshop. Mr. Kabindra Sharma, Associate Fellow & Project Lead at SaciWATERs, delivered the welcome remarks and outlined the objectives of the workshop. Speakers: The core of the workshop consisted of technical sessions led by experts and community leaders, including: – Dr. Suveccha Ghatani, Research Associate,Saciwater, SHG members,ward number 18, Darjeeling Associate, SaciWATERs and – Ms. Pinkey Lepcha, Assistant Professor, Darjeeling Government College – Ms. Snehal, TIEEDI – Mr. Roshan Rai, DLR Prerna & IMI – Smt. Namrata Rai, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Geography, Kurseong College – Mr. Vikram Rai, Founder, ViK Run Foundation – Ms. Riza Chhetri, Project Officer, Darjeeling Welfare Society The workshop concluded with the declaration of the “Darjeeling Zero Waste Roadmap.” Dr. Suveccha Ghatani, Research Associate, SaciWATERs, delivered the vote of thanks. The workshop successfully highlighted that while we can do little alone, together we can achieve a cleaner, greener Darjeeling. Reported by: Trisala Gurung Vice President, Students’ Council, Southfield ( Member ,Nature Club) College, Darjeeling Date: November 25, 2025

21/11/2025 The Community Engagement Cell of Southfield College in collaboration with the IQAC organised an Examination-Related Guidance Session with the objective of supporting students in preparing effectively for their upcoming examinations. The initiative aimed to provide academic guidance, promote exam readiness, and address common concerns faced by students during the examination period. Two separate sessions were conducted to cater to the specific needs of students from different semesters. Mr. Eugesh Pradhan facilitated the session for the Fifth semester students, focusing on effective study strategies, time management techniques, and ways to approach the examination with confidence. Similarly, Ms. Nirmika Subba conducted the session for the third semester students, emphasising advanced preparation methods, stress management, and structured planning for better academic performance. The sessions were highly beneficial, providing students with practical insights and personalised guidance. The initiative successfully fulfilled the objective recommended by the IQAC and contributed to enhancing students’ examination preparedness and overall well-being.

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19.11.25: A Workshop on Mushroom Cultivation was organised by the IQAC and Department of Environmental Science, Southfield College, Darjeeling. Mr. Alish Rai from Tukvar was invited as an instructor for today’s Workshop who demonstrated the whole process of mushroom cultivation and the students participated in it too. The workshop proved to be very beneficial for the students as they could gather relevant datas for their EVS projects and it also marks the beginning of the start up program for Mushroom Cultivation in Southfield College, Darjeeling.

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Report on the Walkathon Organised by Darjeeling Southfield Loreto Alumnae Association Darjeeling, November 14, 2025: The Darjeeling Southfield Loreto Alumnae Association (DSFLAA) successfully organised a vibrant and community-spirited Walkathon on Friday, November 14, bringing together alumnae members, students, teachers and members of the morning health club in a united call for women Empowerment, health, wellness, and environmental consciousness. The Walkathon was flagged off early in the morning, at 7:00am from Southfield College by respected Principal Dr. Anuradha Rai and members of the alumnae association. Participants of all ages from 10 years to 60 years of ages were gathered with enthusiasm, carrying banners promoting women Empowerment, fitness and environmental awareness as they walked through key routes covering a distance of 5.5 km which ended in Southfield college gate. According to organisers, the main theme of the Walkathon was Women Empowerment -“ Every steps Empowers Her”. The event also served as a meaningful platform for alumnae from various graduating batches to reconnect and celebrate their shared Southfield Loreto identity. At the end of the event the participants were also served with refreshments. They expressed appreciation for the well-organised event, noting the refreshing sense of unity and purpose that marked the morning. On behalf of all the members of the alumnae association the vice-president of Darjeeling Southfield Loreto Alumnae Association Ms. Raka Shree Rai extended her gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the event. With the positive response received, the association hopes to organise more community-oriented programmes in the future.

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Cherry Blossom

The event “Run for Fun, Run for a Cause”, organised by MARG, was held with the aim of promoting fitness, unity, and social responsibility among the youth. Students from the YAT Club of Southfield College enthusiastically participated in the run, showcasing great energy, teamwork, and a strong sense of commitment towards the cause. Marg Ngo Darjeeling

On 7 November 2025, the NCC cadets of Southfield College, Darjeeling, actively participated in the “Vande Mataram” group performance held at the Open Theatre, Chowrasta, Darjeeling. The programme was organised to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram and to promote national unity and patriotism among the youth. The event witnessed participation from various schools and colleges across the region. A total of 39 cadets from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years represented Southfield College with remarkable enthusiasm and discipline. Their exemplary coordination and strong sense of teamwork were evident throughout the performance, embodying the core values of the NCC. Their participation further reinforced the spirit of patriotism among the audience gathered at Chowrasta.

On 7 November 2025, the NCC cadets of Southfield College, Darjeeling, actively participated in the “Vande Mataram” group performance held at the Open Theatre, Chowrasta, Darjeeling. The programme was organised to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram and to promote national unity and patriotism among the youth. The event witnessed participation from various schools and colleges across the region. A total of 39 cadets from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years represented Southfield College with remarkable enthusiasm and discipline. Their exemplary coordination and strong sense of teamwork were evident throughout the performance, embodying the core values of the NCC. Their participation further reinforced the spirit of patriotism among the audience gathered at Chowrasta.

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Dated: 07/11/2025 Invited Lecture on “Role of Geography in Risk Reduction Management” An invited lecture on “Role of Geography in Risk Reduction Management” was organized by the Department of Geography, Southfield College, on 7th November 2025. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Muthukrishnan, Assistant Professor, Tamil Nadu Open University, Chennai. The session was structured into two segments. The first segment focused on the theoretical perspectives concerning the significance of geographical knowledge in disaster risk reduction, while the second segment involved a technical, hands-on session that emphasized the practical application of QGIS and GPS-based data collection and analysis. The comprehensive approach of combining theory with practice enabled students to gain both conceptual clarity and practical skills in geospatial techniques essential for disaster management. The Department of Geography expresses its sincere appreciation to Dr. Muthukrishnan for his insightful and engaging lecture, and extends gratitude to all participating students for their enthusiasm, active involvement, and dedication, which contributed to the success of the event.

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Dated: 06/11/2025 Assessment Test of the Professional Certificate Course on Disaster Management The Professional Certificate Course on Disaster Management, jointly organized by Southfield College, Darjeeling, and the Integrated Institute of Disaster Management (IIDM), Tamil Nadu, successfully conducted its assessment test on 6th November 2025. A total of 39 students from the course participated in the examination, of which 12 students appeared online and 27 students appeared through the offline mode. The assessment comprised 150 objective-type questions drawn from three core course modules, with each question carrying 2 marks, making a total of 300 marks. Additionally, the evaluation included a viva-voce component carrying 20 marks, designed to assess students’ conceptual understanding and practical knowledge of disaster management. From IIDM, Dr. Vasudevan (Managing Director, IIDM) and Dr. Muthukrishnan were present during the assessment, along with the faculty members from the Department of Geography, Southfield College, who coordinated and supervised the examination process. The assessment was conducted smoothly, reflecting the collaborative efforts and academic commitment of both institutions.

Dated: 04/11/2025 Closing Ceremony of the UGC NET December 2025 Coaching Programme The Closing Ceremony of the UGC NET December 2025 Coaching Programme was held on 4th November 2025 at Southfield College, Darjeeling, marking the successful completion of an intensive academic initiative that began on 28th August 2025. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Anuradha Rai, Principal of Southfield College, whose leadership and guidance were pivotal to its success. A total of 25 NET aspirants from diverse disciplines—Political Science, History, Geography, Nepali, and English—representing institutions such as Southfield College, Darjeeling Government College, Jadavpur University, and Jamia Millia Islamia participated in the course. Over several weeks, the students completed 36 hours of rigorous coaching (6 hours per week), covering the UGC NET syllabus comprehensively. A mock test, following the UGC NET Paper-I pattern, was conducted on 4th November 2025 to assess participants’ preparedness, with most students achieving commendable results. The event featured addresses by Dr. Anuradha Rai, Mr. Bishal Chhetri, Dr. Dinesh Chandra Ray, and Dr. Benoy Pradhan, who encouraged students toward academic excellence. The Department of Geography expressed gratitude to all faculty members, instructors, and participants for their dedication and contribution to the programme’s success.

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A cordial invitation to the Annual College Fete 2025 at Southfield College, Darjeeling

Join us for a Walkathon organized by Darjeeling Southfield Loreto College Alumnae Association on November 14th 2025 from 7 am onwards. This event is open to everyone and we warmly welcome you all to participate. You can easily register yourself by scanning the QR code above. If you like to purchase a T- shirt to support the event, it is available for ₹600 per person. This Walkathon is more than just a walk; it is a compassionate effort to uplift and empower women, fostering strength and community spirit among us all. Your participation can make a meaningful difference.

*The Darjeeling Youth Fest 2025, organized by the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration*, was a lively inter-college event held at Bhanu Bhawan, Darjeeling, on 18th September 2025, with the continuation of cultural performances on 16th October at Chowrasta. The fest celebrated creativity, unity, and cultural exchange among the youth through various artistic and competitive events. Students from Southfield College actively participated in the Inter-College Group Dance (themed – Fusion ) and Music Band competitions, performing with enthusiasm, coordination, and confidence. The Group Dance team secured *First Prize*, while the Music Band won *Third Prize*, earning high praise from judges and spectators alike. The event provided an excellent platform for students to showcase their talents and interact with peers from different institutions. Their achievements brought pride to the college, reflecting Southfield’s commitment to fostering holistic development and cultural excellence.