The Department of Geography, Sikkim Government College, Namchi, in collaboration with Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), organized a two-day workshop on “Research Methodology” on 29 and 30 September 2026 at the Science Seminar Hall. The workshop was sponsored by Sikkim Government College Namchi. The workshop aimed to develop research skills, strengthen students, understanding of research methodology, and familiarize them with various methodological approaches relevant to geographical research and dissertation writing.
The resource person for the workshop was Dr. Soumya Mitra, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography, St. Xavier’s College, North Bengal, Siliguri, West Bengal. The workshop commenced with a brief introductory address on Research Methodology by Prof. (Dr.) Deepak Tiwari, Principal cum Professor (Nepali Department) of the college. Dr. Dilli Ram Dahal, Head of the Department of Geography, formally introduced the resource person to the participants.
The programme was attended by faculty members of the Department of Geography- Dr. Tanka Prasad Dhungel and shri Royal Rai, Associate Professors; Dr. Pankaj Kumar Das, Prativa Subba, Akila Bhutia, Kalden Tamang and Rikesh Pradhan, Assistant Professors, along with students of the first and third semesters of the postgraduate programme.
During the first day, Dr. Mitra provided an overview of the research process and discussed qualitative research methodology in geography. Her sessions focused on the philosophical foundations of qualitative inquiry, selecting appropriate qualitative research designs, developing sampling strategies, preparing interview guides and observation protocols, and analysing textual, visual, and spatial data. She also emphasized the importance of reflexivity, research ethics, and trustworthiness in qualitative research.
On the second day, Dr. Mitra delivered sessions on indices in geographical research, explaining the different types of indices (Sopher’s & Location Quotient) commonly used in geography and discussed various statistical tests and their applications in geographical studies.
Overall, the two-day workshop provided a valuable academic platform for students to enhance their research knowledge, develop methodological skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the research process. It also encouraged participants to approach geographical problems in a more systematic and scientific manner. The programme proved to be an enriching learning experience, enabling students to strengthen their research capabilities and develop greater confidence in undertaking academic research.
The letter of appreciation and certificate were presented to Dr. Soumya Mitra by Dr. Tanka Prasad Dhungel, Mr. Royal Rai, and the Head of the Department of Geography. Technical assistance during the programme was provided by Mr. Kalden Tamang and Mr. Rikesh Pradhan. Ayush Chettri and Drishya Rai served as the rapporteurs of the workshop, while Anusha Chettri served as the Master of Ceremonies (MC). Dr. Pankaj Kumar Das, Ms. Prativa Subba, and Ms. Akila Bhutia supervised the students in preparing the workshop report. Program concluded with a vote thanks by Dr. Tanka Prasad Dhungel, Associate Professor of the Department of Geography.
