The mechanism of SEDGs operates through a structured institutional framework to ensure identification, support, inclusion, monitoring, and grievance redressal of disadvantaged students.
1. Identification of SEDGs Students
HEIs identify eligible students during:
o Admission process
o Counselling and induction programmes
Identification is based on:
o Category (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/Minority)
o Gender identity
o Disability status
o Economic and social vulnerability
o Geographic disadvantage
2. Establishment of SEDGs Cell
Every HEI must establish a SEDGs Cell
The Cell functions as an independent and dedicated body
It coordinates with existing statutory bodies like:
o SC/ST Cell
o Equal Opportunity Cell
o Internal Complaint Committee
o IQAC
3. Academic Support Mechanism
To reduce academic gaps, the Cell ensures:
Bridge courses (before and during semesters)
Orientation programmes for smooth transition
Use of:
o Local languages
o Online platforms (e.g., SWAYAM)
Continuous mentoring and monitoring of progress
4. Financial Support Mechanism
Implementation of Earn-While-Learn (EwL) Scheme
Facilitation of:
o Scholarships and fellowships
o Fee support and welfare schemes
Collaboration with:
o Government bodies
o NGOs
o Corporate sector (CSR funds)
o Alumni contributions
5. Outreach and Inclusion Mechanism
Special focus on students from:
o Rural, tribal, slum, and aspirational areas
Mechanism includes:
o Outreach programmes
o Special Education Zones
o Career, academic, and psychological counselling
o Assistive technologies for PwDs
6. Sensitization and Awareness Mechanism
Regular sensitization programmes for:
o Faculty
o Administrative staff
o Students
Focus areas:
o Equity and inclusion
o Reservation policy
o Gender sensitivity
o Respect, dignity, and zero tolerance for discrimination
7. Grievance Redressal Mechanism
SEDGs Cell acts as a Single-Window System
Grievances are:
o Received confidentially
o Addressed through a Grievance Redressal Committee
o Resolved within 15 days
Ensures:
o Privacy
o Safety
o Dignity of the complainant
8. Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism
Regular review of:
o Academic performance
o Dropout rates
o Utilization of schemes
Maintenance of:
o Student database
o Welfare and support records
Reporting to:
o Institutional authorities
o IQAC (for NAAC/NIRF compliance)
9. Policy Implementation and Compliance
Ensures implementation of:
o UGC guidelines
o Government policies
o Reservation norms
o Anti-discrimination laws
Aligns institutional practices with:
o NEP 2020
o SDGs
o NAAC & NIRF criteria
