Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) Cell
Advancing inclusive, equitable and quality higher education through access, support, dignity and participation.
Mahakaushal University, Jabalpur is committed to an inclusive and respectful learning environment. The SEDGs Cell is intended to help eligible students access educational opportunities, understand support schemes, seek academic and socio-emotional guidance, and raise concerns through appropriate University mechanisms in line with applicable UGC and Government guidelines.
The UGC Guidelines to Provide Equitable Opportunity for Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) in Higher Education Institutions describe the SEDGs Cell as an independent body that works alongside existing statutory cells and University mechanisms to support constitutional rights, dignity, safety, inclusion and equitable access to higher education.
Who are SEDGs?
UGC’s 2024 Guidelines identify multiple dimensions of disadvantage. The categories below summarise the groups described in the Guidelines; eligibility for any scheme or statutory benefit remains subject to the applicable rules and documentation.
Gender identity
Women and girls, including those facing multiple forms of disadvantage, and transgender persons.
Social backwardness
Students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Educational & economic barriers
Non-Creamy Layer OBCs, EWS students, first-generation learners and students from vernacular-medium schools.
Minority identity
Students belonging to religious and linguistic minorities.
Persons with disabilities
Persons with disabilities, including benchmark disabilities as recognised under applicable law.
Vulnerable & low-income situations
Migrant communities, denotified and nomadic tribes, BPL/low-income households, and children in vulnerable situations.
This is an informational summary based on the UGC Guidelines to Provide Equitable Opportunity for SEDGs in HEIs. Please refer to the official Guidelines for complete definitions and scope.
Core objectives & functions
The Cell coordinates with existing statutory bodies and University offices to improve equitable access, safety, support and participation in higher education.
Coordinate with relevant University cells and offices to help students access scholarships, fellowships and applicable Government schemes.
Provide or coordinate academic guidance, socio-emotional support, mentoring and counselling through appropriate University arrangements.
Support orientation, bridge courses, outreach and earn-while-learn initiatives where established by the University.
Promote student participation in academic and campus activities and share information about educational opportunities.
Publicize UGC and Government guidelines, applicable reservation policies, support schemes and student safeguards.
Coordinate preventive measures against discrimination and atrocities with the competent University bodies and authorities.
Facilitate the routing and redressal of SEDG-related grievances through the designated Grievance Redressal Committee while protecting safety, privacy and dignity.
How to seek support
Students can approach the designated SEDGs Cell contact with a request for information, academic support or help navigating a University scheme or grievance mechanism.
View contact detailsContact the Cell
Use the official contact details published on this page. If the matter belongs to another statutory cell or office, the University can guide it to the appropriate mechanism.
Explain the concern
Describe the assistance requested, relevant dates and programme or department. Share only information necessary to address the matter and attach supporting documents when appropriate.
Review and referral
The concern should be reviewed and coordinated with the appropriate University office or Grievance Redressal Committee in accordance with applicable procedures and the UGC SEDGs guidance.
Follow up safely
Retain a copy of your representation and any acknowledgement. The grievance process should respect the complainant’s privacy, dignity and safety.
Notices, schemes & official documents
Published University orders, scholarship and fellowship information, outreach activities, student-support initiatives and relevant official notices will appear here.
No SEDG notices have been published yet. Official University orders, schemes and announcements will appear here when published by the University.
UGC guidelines & reference material
Use the official University Grants Commission guideline for the description of SEDGs and the section that sets out the role and objectives of the SEDGs Cell. The University should verify the applicable version and any subsequent directions before updating its procedures.
Contact the SEDGs Cell
For SEDG-related information and support, contact the University through the official details below. Your query can be directed to the appropriate designated University office.