Government Degree College Banihal, affiliated with the University of Jammu, was sanctioned in December 2007 under the Prime Minister's Reconstruction Plan (PMRP) and started its academic functioning from May 6, 2008. Spread over an area of 8.6 acres, the college is located in foothills of Pir-Panjal range surrounded by mighty snow-capped mountains. Presently, the college comprises of two blocks - one, Academic block where the regular classwork, practical work and administrative infrastructure is being set up and, the other, Administrative block which is under construction.

The college is offering under-graduate courses in Science (B.Sc.) and Arts (B.A.) streams. The college has been recognized by UGC under section 2(F) and 12(B) of UGC Act 1956. In 2021, MANUU study center was also established in the college.

The institute has effective welfare schemes for teaching and non-teaching staff and gives it prime importance during the academic calendar. The college considers all its employees as an important human resource and provides healthy working environment which enhances their real potential for the overall development of the college. The various monetary and non-monetary welfare schemes from Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir are applicable to teaching and non- teaching employees which are finally approved by Department of Higher Education.