Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) Cell

The Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) Cell is a dedicated body established within our AIGS, in accordance with the University Grants Commission (UGC) Guidelines (January 2024), to ensure equitable access to higher education and opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The primary aim of the SEDGs Cell is to address systemic barriers, promote inclusive participation, and provide comprehensive support to all students, irrespective of their socio-economic background or ability, fostering an environment where no talent is left behind.

Key Objectives of the SEDGs Cell

The objectives of the SEDGs Cell are designed to create a safe, secure, and inclusive campus environment:

• To protect all the constitutional rights, dignity, safety, and security of individuals belonging to the SEDGs.
• To ensure that the HEI is an inclusive, safe, and secure environment for all SEDGs students.
• To provide socio-emotional and academic support and mentoring through proper counselling and monitoring programs.
• To ensure the effective implementation of Government policies, including reservation policies, various schemes, facilities, and guidelines designed for SEDGs students.
• To ensure the development of appropriate outreach programs to help SEDGs students access educational opportunities.
• To ensure proper implementation of preventive measures and laws against discrimination and atrocities.
• To circulate, publicize, and monitor the implementation of all UGC and Government guidelines relating to SEDGs.
• To redress the grievances and complaints of SEDGs students within 15 days through a formal Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC).

Core Functions of the SEDGs Cell

The Cell performs several vital functions to integrate and support SEDGs students within the institution:

• Coordination & Scholarships: To coordinate with existing statutory bodies (like the SC/ST Cell and Equal Opportunity Cell) to facilitate access to scholarships and fellowships from government sources.
• Academic Support: To ensure the implementation of bridge courses, orientation sessions, and remedial coaching for students to bridge academic gaps.
• Financial & Skill Development: To facilitate "Earn-while-Learn" schemes and organize workshops for personality development, professional, and soft skills to enhance employability.
• Single Window Support: To work as a "Single Window" for all student needs, amenities, facilities, and welfare measures.
• Sensitization: To ensure the sensitization of faculty, staff, counsellors, and all other students on SEDGs issues and promote an attitudinal change towards inclusivity.
• Zero-Tolerance Policy: To inform all students during induction/counselling about the Zero-tolerance policy for any form of discrimination.