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Inside Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, Delhi University: Courses, Infrastructure, Fees, Student Life & Placements | DU Beat

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Explore Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (ARSD), Delhi University, NAAC A++ accredited and ranked among India’s top colleges. Discover courses, fees, admissions, campus facilities, student life, alumni, and placements.

Established in 1959, Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (ARSD), affiliated with the University of Delhi (DU), is one of the leading co-educational institutions in India known for academic excellence and holistic development. Located in South Campus, Dhaula Kuan, the college combines strong academic programmes with innovation, research, and community engagement.

ARSD College is accredited with an A++ grade by NAAC and holds the highest NAAC score (3.77) among all Delhi University colleges to date. Recognized by the UGC, ARSD has consistently ranked among India’s top higher education institutions — securing 5th position in the NIRF College Ranking 2024 with an exceptional research score of 94.84, and featuring prominently in India Today 2024 for Arts, Commerce, and Science streams.

With a focus on inclusivity, skill development, and sustainability, ARSD offers a transformative learning experience supported by modern infrastructure, dynamic faculty, and a vibrant student community.

ARSD College Infrastructure & Campus Facilities

Located in the heart of South Delhi, ARSD College features a sprawling green campus equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, digital facilities, and sustainable initiatives. The entire campus is Wi-Fi enabled, fully CCTV-monitored, and includes smart classrooms, seminar halls, modern laboratories, and research-oriented spaces.

Under the Star College Scheme, new equipment worth ₹44 lakh was procured, facilitating 64 in-house research projects involving over 200 students. The college also added 110 new computers (7th generation) and three new computer laboratories to enhance its IT ecosystem. An Audio-Visual Studio has been established for e-content creation, and lectures with reading material are now accessible on the college website and YouTube channels.

The ARSD Library serves as a comprehensive knowledge hub with a collection of approximately 1,27,000 books, along with DULS, NLIST, DELNET, and ONOS e-resources. The library acquired 1,869 new books, 23 periodicals, and 39 magazines in 2024–25 and is fully automated with SOUL 3.0 Library Management Software and RFID technology. Dedicated facilities like JAWS software, Zoomax Luna 6, and Evo 11 assist differently-abled students. With seating for over 180 readers and 35 computer terminals, the ARSD Library remains one of the most resourceful in Delhi University.

Sustainability is central to ARSD’s campus planning. The college has installed solar lamps, energy sensors, and tactile pathways for universal accessibility. It is currently in the process of installing solar panels to further its eco-friendly goals.

In recognition of these efforts, ARSD received the District Environment Championship Award 2024–25 for South-West Delhi and was declared an Eco-SDG Champ 2024 by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, for exemplary contributions to sustainable development practices in higher education.

Courses Offered at ARSD College, Delhi University

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (ARSD) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Arts, Commerce, and Science, catering to students with varied academic interests. At the undergraduate level, the college provides B.A. (Hons) courses in subjects such as Economics, English, Hindi, History, Political Science, and Sanskrit, alongside B.A. Programme combinations in Humanities and Social Sciences. Commerce students can pursue B.Com (Programme) and B.Com (Hons), while science aspirants have the option of B.Sc. (Hons) and Programme courses in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Electronics.

The fee structure for undergraduate courses in 2024–25 ranges from ₹13,915 for general B.A. and B.Com programmes to ₹14,815 for B.Com (Hons) and certain B.A. (Hons) courses. Postgraduate offerings include M.A. programs in English, Hindi, and Political Science, and M.Sc. programs in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, following the University of Delhi curriculum with emphasis on research, projects, and hands-on learning experiences. With its robust academic framework, ARSD College ensures students receive high-quality education that blends theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, preparing them for successful careers and further studies.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (ARSD) provides extensive scholarships and financial aid to support students from diverse economic backgrounds, ensuring that meritorious and needy students can pursue higher education without financial constraints. The college’s Fee Concession and Book-Aid Committee recommends students for fee concessions, book aid, and scholarships every academic year. In 2024–25, a total of 807 students were granted fee concessions, while 450 students received assistance through the book-aid facility. Additionally, 20 meritorious and deserving students were awarded scholarships of ₹5,000 each under the Alumni Association and Taneja Foundation schemes. Special sponsored concessions were also provided to 20 students, with 16 receiving ₹5,000 each and one student receiving ₹2,000, supported by Dr. Meena Dadu. These initiatives, combined with merit-cum-need-based awards and government scholarships, reflect ARSD College’s commitment to inclusive education, empowering students to achieve academic excellence while fostering equity and social responsibility.

Extracurricular Activities & Student Life at ARSD College

ARSD College boasts a vibrant student culture with numerous societies and clubs that nurture creativity, leadership, and social responsibility.

The Cultural Society includes Saarang (Music), Kalasree (Classical Dance), Outbreak (Western Dance), and Stellar (Fashion), offering platforms for students to showcase their talents. The annual fest TIDE is a major attraction in Delhi University’s cultural calendar.

Rangayan, the Dramatics Society, organizes the annual theatre festival Rangsheersh Jaidev Natyotsav, while Arteysania promotes arts and crafts through exhibitions and workshops. The Eco Club fosters environmental awareness, and Enactus ARSD empowers over 70 student volunteers working on 4 social entrepreneurship projects, creating 15 entrepreneurs and impacting over 10,000 lives.

Academic and debating societies like Nimbus (English) and Vedanta (Hindi) hold weekly debates and the annual Ehsaas Parliamentary Debate. The Equal Opportunity Cell (EOC) ensures accessibility for differently-abled students through inclusive workshops and collaborations with organizations like IDEA and the Society of Disabled and Rehabilitation Studies.

Social outreach initiatives include the NSS Unit, which conducts blood donation drives, self-defense sessions, plantation campaigns, and digital literacy programs; and the NCC Unit, which builds leadership and discipline through training under 7 and 6 Delhi Battalions.

Societies like YUJ (Yoga & Wellness), Women Development Cell (WDC), Pixelation (Photography & Videography), The Multilingual Creative Writing Society, The Gandhi and Ambedkar Study Circles, and The North East Welfare Committee together make ARSD a hub of diversity and inclusivity.

The college also publishes the Udyachal magazine and newsletters Samanvya (Hindi), Synergy (English), and Vaanijya Doot, encouraging creative expression and critical thought.

Admissions at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (Delhi University)

Undergraduate Admissions (UG)

Admissions to ARSD College are based on CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), and managed through Delhi University’s CSAS-UG portal.

Eligibility requires completion of Class XII from a recognized board, and seat allocation is determined by CUET subject combinations and scores. There is no age bar, and students with gap years are equally eligible.

Postgraduate Admissions (PG)

Admissions to PG programs are through CUET-PG, followed by CSAS-PG counseling on the DU portal. Allotments are made based on rank, eligibility, and course preferences, with final admission confirmed after document verification and fee payment.

Recognition & Rankings

ARSD College stands among India’s top-ranked institutions for higher education, consistently recognized for its research, sustainability, and innovation.

  • NAAC Accreditation: A++ Grade (Score 3.77 — Highest in DU)
  • NIRF 2024: 5th in India (Research Score 94.84)
  • India Today 2024 Rankings: 5th in Political Science, 7th in History, 8th in Commerce, 9th in Arts, and 15th in Science
  • District Environment Championship 2024–25 (South-West Delhi)
  • Eco-SDG Champ 2024 for Sustainability Initiatives

Notable Alumni of Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College (ARSD) has produced distinguished alumni who have excelled across diverse fields such as cinema, media, politics, and corporate leadership. Among its celebrated graduates is Rajkummar Rao, a National Award-winning actor renowned for his versatile performances in Indian cinema. In the field of journalism, Sudhir Chaudhary, Editor of Aajtak, stands out as a leading media professional. The college has also nurtured political leaders such as Sh. Neeraj Shekhar, former Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, who has contributed significantly to public life. In the corporate sector, alumni like Umesh Upadhyay, President and Director of Media at Reliance, exemplify the college’s commitment to developing capable and visionary professionals. These accomplished individuals reflect ARSD College’s focus on holistic education, academic excellence, and leadership development, reinforcing its reputation as one of Delhi University’s premier institutions.

Internships & Placements at ARSD College

The Placement Cell of ARSD College plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academics and industry. It provides students with career opportunities, internships, and corporate exposure through collaborations with leading recruiters.

Since 2019, ARSD’s Job & Internship Fair has grown into one of Delhi University’s most successful student-industry engagement events, attracting participation from across Delhi-NCR and beyond. The cell conducts seminars, workshops, and counseling sessions to enhance employability skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork.

Top recruiters include Deloitte, KPMG, EY, Wipro, and TresVista, among others, offering placements across finance, consulting, IT, and management sectors.

Through mentorship and training, the Placement Cell empowers students to navigate the competitive job market with confidence and professionalism continuing ARSD’s legacy as a top-performing college within Delhi University.

Image Credits: Ayushmaan for DU Beat

Neeraja Unnikrishnan

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Campus Central

Missing DU Student Sneha Debnath Found Under Geeta Colony Flyover in Alleged Suicide Attempt

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New details have emerged about the case of the missing 19 year old student from Delhi University; investigation remains ongoing following the discovery of the student’s body.

Almost a week after a 19-year-old student, Sneha Debnath from Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, University of Delhi went missing, her body has been recovered following a 72-hour search by the Delhi Police under the Geeta Colony flyover in the Yamuna river on Sunday.

Debnath, originally from Sabroom in Tripura, had moved away from her family to Delhi in order to pursue higher education. She had resided in Paryavaran Complex, South Delhi, as of late and the discovery of a suicide note by her family in her college hostel points towards an alleged suicide attempt by the student. 

Sneha’s family and hostel authorities discovered a handwritten note in her room on July 13th, which seemed to indicate suicidal intent. The note, which is now under the jurisdiction of the Delhi Police for further investigation, read-

I just feel like a failure and burden, and it was getting unbearable to live like this. There is no foul play. It was my decision.” 

Eyewitness testimonies remained hazy, and Debnath’s body was eventually discovered under the Geeta Colony flyover in the Yamuna river and identified by the authorities.

The case had emerged on July 7, when Sneha had told her mother that she was going to meet a friend (Pitunia) at Sarai Rohilla Railway Station at 6:45 am to bid her goodbye for a train. Her family attempted to contact her two hours later, at 8:45 a.m., but all in vain, as her phone appeared to be switched off.

Pitunia admitted to not having met with Sneha earlier in the morning, and that Sneha had instead taken a cab to Signature Bridge, a known suicide spot where no CCTV cameras are functional – an issue that was brought up by her father in the past week, given that it hindered the search for his daughter.

 

“It is unacceptable that no CCTV cameras are working in a high-risk area like Signature Bridge. My sister was missing, and we have no leads because the only concrete form of evidence, video footage, is not available… We demand accountability from the Delhi Police and government, and immediate steps to fix this negligent failure.”
– Debnath’s family 


The cab driver in question confirmed dropping her near the bridge, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) joined forces with the Delhi Police to conduct an extensive search across a 7-kilometre radius from Noida to Nigam Bodh Ghat. 

Sneha’s family, including her ailing father, a retired Army Subedar Major undergoing dialysis, had earlier expressed anguish over the delayed FIR, filed more than 48 hours after she was reported missing. He had taken to making emotional appeals on social media through posts that were popularised largely by students of Delhi University, eventually drawing the attention of Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, who instructed state police to coordinate with Delhi authorities and assist in the search. The Tripura CMO had earlier posted online:

I express my grief over her death, and my sympathy is with the bereaved family. I ask the authority of Tripura Bhavan, New Delhi, to render all possible help to the family.”

Image Credits: ANI

Aastha Singh

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DUB News

72 Hours and Still No Trace: The Disappearance of Sneha Debnath Demands Urgent Action

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19-year-old DU student Sneha Debnath has been missing since July 7 near Signature Bridge. With no leads, non-functional CCTVs, and minimal media attention, her disappearance has raised questions about public safety, surveillance, and institutional accountability in Delhi.

Sneha Debnath, a 19-year-old BSc Mathematics student at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, University of Delhi, has been missing since the early hours of July 7. According to her family, Sneha left from Sarai Rohilla and was last known to have taken a cab, reportedly being dropped off near Signature Bridge at approximately 8:30 am. Her final communication was around 8:45 am, after which her phone has remained switched off. As of now, there has been no trace of her.

An FIR has been filed, and police claim that an investigation is underway, but over 72 hours later, no leads have surfaced. What is particularly alarming, family members say, is the alleged failure of basic surveillance infrastructure in the area. CCTV cameras around Signature Bridge, identified in previous reports as a location vulnerable to suicides and disappearances, were reportedly non-functional at the time. The lack of visual evidence has severely impeded the investigation, raising pressing concerns about public safety and the accountability of civic authorities.

Sneha’s family, friends, and college peers are now grappling with a mounting sense of helplessness. Her mother, in a widely circulated video, is seen breaking down, pleading for her daughter’s return. Repeated appeals for urgent intervention have, so far, failed to generate any significant response from either law enforcement or political leadership. Signature Bridge, the site of Sneha’s last known location, has been the subject of public concern before. Despite multiple incidents in the past, calls for improved surveillance, functional CCTV cameras, and regular patrolling have reportedly gone unheeded. The current case, many believe, is a direct consequence of this neglect. In a city that routinely promises technological advancement and public safety, the failure of the most basic protective measures is a sobering indictment.

What has further intensified the distress is the near-complete absence of media coverage. A student from one of India’s most reputed public universities disappearing in broad daylight, without triggering national or even city-wide concern, speaks to a larger issue of whose stories are amplified and whose are quietly erased.

The case of Sneha Debnath cannot be seen in isolation. It is part of a wider, troubling landscape in which women’s safety continues to be precarious, and institutional responses remain reactive rather than preventative. For students, parents, and citizens at large, it is a stark reminder that vulnerability persists despite promises of protection. Sneha’s friends and family continue to urge anyone with information to come forward. But beyond individual appeals, this moment demands structural accountability. For Sneha’s sake, and for the many others who never make headlines, it is time the silence is broken, not just in words, but in action.

Read Also: NEP Approves Research Supervision for NEP-UGCF Amidst Concerns on Implementation

Image Credits: Sneha Debnath Family Statement

Ritobrita Mukherjee

[email protected]

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Admissions 2013

Delhi University to take action against admission discrepencies

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Delhi University has been facing arrant chaos and bedlam ever since admissions to the Four Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) started. It’s the first time ever that many colleges closed their doors for admissions to courses before time due to over admissions. The forking for equality, selection and caliber has been reducing with the admissions to FYUP. Colleges have been soughing under the stress. There was a torrent of applications from students at some colleges due to lower cut-offs and consequent to the same there were admissions over the ratified seats. For instance, there were 55,000 applications this year compared to 2,200 last year for the Journalism Course. By retaining the original certificates and unnecessarily detaining admission process, many colleges have also been accused of. Besides some colleges also admitted students on first-come-first-serve basis, which is out of the bound of rule books.

The Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) casts about the aftermath of the delving by Delhi University. The University, after all, has resolved to appoint a high-octane committee headed by a retired judge to inquire over the alleged matters regarding infraction of admission norms by some colleges during the ongoing admissions. An inquiry into the issue has been originated by J.M. Khurana, the Dean, Students’ Welfare.

Six colleges namely College of Vocational Studies (CVS), Sri Aurobindo, Maharaja Agrasen, Swami Shraddhanand, Shyam Lal and Atma Ram Santan Dharma (ARSD) had promised seats to aspirants eligible in first cutoff and denied later. Applicants had to visit Dean’s office (Student Welfare) to settle issues, although many of which could be tackled at the colleges themselves. CVS confronted problems regarding English Honours admissions whereas ARSD, Maharja Agrasen College and Sri Aurobindo faced trouble at B.Tech in Computer Science, B.Tech in Electronics, Physics and Chemistry, respectively. Also, students and parents, calling for justice, brought out strike at CVS, unfortunately which had no positive upshot.

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