The Department of History is one of the oldest Department in the College. It runs a prestigious programme of under-graduate studies, which was launched in 1983. This group envisaged a departure from conventional history programmes at the time, with emphasis laid on the importance of theory and analytical concepts in reconstructing the past, along with a thorough understanding and command of relevant primary sources.

The History department took the lead in shifting focus from politico-administrative history to socio-economic history while such approaches were still at an incipient stage in other parts of India. Within the wider rubric of socio-economic history, the courses and research themes have broadened and deepened the relatively neglected areas of popular protest movements, and “history from below”, histories, in short, of the mass of Indian people, such as peasants, artisans, workers and other marginal groups. In addition, there were courses, which branched out into the history of ideas, and of art, architecture and literature.

By adhering to the system of tutorials, which involves intense discussions of student papers in small groups with the teacher concerned, The Department has nurtured a high quality of student preparedness for independent research and writing. The faculty of History also organizes and participates in a wide range of conferences, workshops and seminars, in order to acquaint themselves, and students, with new approaches and themes in the study of history and culture.

To build ancient knowledge system through discovery and scientific analyses of valuable information and historical data and to disseminate its significance to the region and the Nation to achieve cultural growth, social parity, national integration and provide future direction.

1. To collect, preserve, research, interpret and exhibit collections related to the history of India as well as Andhra Pradesh.

2. To engage audiences to understand and interpret our history.

3. To promote an understanding of Indian history to enhance people's awareness of their identity and to enrich people's cultural lives.

4. To connect people with the world through enhancing their appreciation of the world history.

5. To provide equal social and economic opportunities to all section of the society, a step towards national integration.

6. To be a leader in the fields of public service and history.