All India Geography Congress would return to Patna University in November this year after a gap of two decades.

More than 800 people, including 12 foreigners, are likely to take part in the event, which would be held from November 2 to 4.

The theme for the 34th All India Geography Congress is “Hazards, vulnerability and sustainable development”. Last year, the event was held at Burdwan in Bengal.

The last time Patna University hosted the event was way back in 1992.

The head of the geography department at Patna University, Rash Bihari Prasad Singh, said: “The event assumes importance as there will be two panel discussions focusing on issues related to Bihar.”

Issues related to flood in Bihar, its outcome, vulnerability and steps needed to address the issue would be the subjects for discussion at the event.

Singh said Bihar is a flood-prone state. “Almost every year, the Kosi region bears the brunt during monsoon,” Singh said.

After the panel discussion, the members participating in the congress will prepare a report and submit it to Planning Commission and the state government, suggesting steps that could be taken before and after the floods.

Issues related to the Centre-state relations and regional development would also be discussed at the three-day event.