About Us
Department of Botany was established in 2006 under the esteemed guidance of Prof. P.K Khosla, Chancellor, Shoolini University with a vision for excellence in teaching plant sciences.
Vision & Mission
The Department aims to inculcate in students a scientific temperament and environmental awareness while preparing them to face life’s challenges. It emphasizes the critical understanding that human existence depends on plants, highlighting the urgent need for nature conservation. The focus is on enhancing students conceptual, personal, and entrepreneurial skills, as well as inspiring them to excel in competitive examinations. It also seeks to prepare human resources for demanding career opportunities in life sciences and management. Through collaborations with leading educational and research institutions in India and abroad, the institution promotes academic exchange and growth. Additionally, it offers research and consultancy services to bio-based industries and organizations. Committed to quality education in plant sciences, it strives to sensitize students to the importance of conserving natural resources while encouraging broad instructional goals that align with evolving educational trends. Overall, it is dedicated to fostering the intellectual, professional, and personal development of its students.
Academic Curriculum
| Course | Duration | Qualification & Eligibility | Age | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc Botany | 4 Semesters (Sem IV dedicated to specialization courses) | A Bachelor’s degree with Second Division or at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST) in aggregate in Botany in 3-year degree or Honours, as per HPU rules. | Male: up to 26 yrs Female: up to 28 yrs SC/ST: up to 29 yrs | 40 |
Fee Structure
| Course | Semester Fee | Security Fee (Refundable) | Admission Fee (One-time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSc Botany | ₹ 40,000 | ₹ 10,000 | ₹ 1,000 |
FAQs
M.Sc. Botany offers a career pathway in both government and private sectors. At SILB we provide a balanced curriculum combining laboratory work, field studies, and hands-on training:
- Wide Career Scope: Research, agriculture, forestry, environmental management, and pharmaceuticals.
- Strong Foundation: Ideal for Ph.D. and research careers.
- Growing Demand: Rapid expansion of environmental, agricultural, and plant-based industries.
- Real-World Relevance: Contribute to climate change, food security, and biodiversity conservation.
As SILB is affiliated with HPU, the degree is awarded by Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla upon successful completion, ensuring strong academic recognition and credibility.
🏛️ Government Sector
- Forest Services (via UPSC / State PCS)
- Scientific roles in CSIR and ICAR
- Teaching positions after UGC-NET / CSIR-NET
- Botanical Survey & agricultural departments
🏢 Private Sector
- Pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies
- Seed, fertilizer & agri-tech industries
- Environmental consultancy firms
- Research organizations and NGOs
Yes, regular UGC-NET / CSIR-NET classes are conducted providing structured support for national-level competitive examinations. These also help students prepare for State Eligibility Tests (SET) and various Commission examinations.
- Affiliation with HPU, Shimla ensures a recognized and credible degree.
- Regular competitive exam support (UGC-NET / CSIR-NET, SET, and other exams).
- Emphasis on practical training, fieldwork, and research exposure.
- Supportive faculty, serene hill setting, well-connected to city centre.

Dr. Mamta Singh Pathania, PhD, MSc.(Hons), BSc.(Hons), PU Chandigarh.
Head of Department & Associate Professor
& Experience: 21 years
Specialization: Specializes in Phytoremediation and Phytomining studies in
cryptogams (Bryophytes) under heavy metal stress conditions and their use
for monitoring of regional and local patterns of deposition.

Dr. Kranti Thakur
Assistant Professor (on special Leave)
& Experience:12 years
Specialization in Floristic analysis and Phytosociology) Teaching

Dr Arti Kumari
Assistant Professor
& Experience: 8 years
Specialization in Plant physiology and Microbiology Teaching Experience: 8 years

Ms. SAMITRI DEVI
Assistant Professor
& Experience: 3years
Ms. Samitri Devi, Pursuing Ph.D., M.Phil Botany (Studies
on the Ethnic Indian Plants inscure of KidneyAilments) from
H.P.University, SET & TET qualified.

Mr. Sandeep Kumar Gautam, MSc Maths, BEd.
Assistant Professor
Experience: 3 years

