Kamala Nehru College, founded on 20th July 1964 as the 'Government College for Women,' has a rich history spanning over five decades. Initially located in Defence Colony, the college started with a focus on humanities courses and later expanded to include the commerce stream. Under the guidance of its founder Principal, Dr. K. K. Gorowara, the college embarked on its journey with only sixteen staff members, and the first batch of 209 students graduated in 1968. The college's magazine, 'Swati,' was introduced in the academic year 1965-66. Over the years, the college underwent name changes, becoming 'Modern College for Women' in 1966-67 and adopting the name 'Apoorva' for its magazine in 1967-68.
On 21st November 1972, the foundation stone for a new building was laid at Hauz Khas (currently August Kranti Marg) by the then President, Shri V.V. Giri. It was on this occasion that the college was officially renamed Kamala Nehru College. In 1974, during the Founder's Day celebration, the new building was inaugurated by Mrs. Indira Gandhi, who unveiled the plaque and planted saplings.
The college boasts a beautiful auditorium that was built through dedicated fundraising efforts by the staff and students. It was inaugurated on 17th December 1991 by the Vice-President at the time, Shankar Dayal Sharma. Today, the college boasts well-maintained computer laboratories, a sports ground, a gymnasium, and eco-friendly bamboo classrooms alongside the main building. The library is well-stocked and includes a separate audio-visual section. The college prioritizes inclusivity, with facilities designed to accommodate differently-abled individuals, and constant CCTV surveillance ensures safety on campus. Additionally, the Placement Cell, NSS, NSO, NCC, and Counselling Cell operate to support the overall well-being of the students. Kamala Nehru College also has several extracurricular societies that provide students with diverse avenues for self-discovery and personality development. Each department and society publishes its own annual newsletters/magazines, while the college releases its journal 'Akademos' (An Annual Miscellany of Liberal Arts and Scholarship, ISSN 2231-0584) every year.
The success of any educational institution relies on its efficient faculty members, diligent students, supportive administrative staff, and dynamic leadership. Kamala Nehru College has continuously thrived due to the efforts of these stakeholders. The founding principal, Dr. K. K. Gorowara (21-7-1964 to 10-7-1986), played a crucial role in shaping the early years of the college. Her idealism and vision provided the direction and foundation necessary for an educational institution to flourish. She played a pivotal role in positioning Kamala Nehru College as a prominent name in various domains, and the college owes a great debt of gratitude to her for establishing its reputation within the University of Delhi.
Following Dr. Gorowara, Dr. Surinder J. Sharma (23-9-1986 to 31-7-2004) carried forward the legacy and implemented significant changes in response to the evolving needs of the time. Under her leadership, the college introduced new courses in Commerce, Geography, Sociology, and Journalism. Her efforts led to infrastructural developments and produced high-caliber students who excelled in various fields. Dr. Sharma's contributions toward the growth of the institute remain unforgettable.
Dr. Minoti Chatterjee (1-11-2004 to 31-08-2015), the third principal, continued the tradition of academic and extracurricular excellence.
