The Initiative for Caste Equity (ICE), working in close collaboration with the SC/ST Cell, seeks to build a campus community grounded in social justice and equal opportunity. ICE engages the broader campus through sensitization, training, and awareness programs that highlight the importance of caste equity and the lived experiences of marginalized communities. Through its various activities, ICE emphasizes the values of dignity, representation, and solidarity, addressing the aspirations, and challenges faced by students, staff, and faculty from historically disadvantaged social locations.
Together, the SC/ST Cell and ICE have led a range of impactful initiatives in the domains of advocacy, mentorship, leadership development, mental health, and academic engagement. These efforts are designed not only to support individual students but also to transform the institutional culture, making it more responsive and accountable to the ideals of diversity and inclusion. Our work extends to students from SC, ST, OBC, and other marginalized backgrounds, ensuring that structural barriers are actively challenged and that the promise of higher education is accessible to all.
Support mechanisms, including financial assistance and structured grievance redressal processes, have been put in place to enable students from SC and ST categories to overcome systemic disadvantages. Some of the important provisions have been listed below, however, students are encouraged to refer to the IIT Delhi Prospectus for detailed information on these provisions. Together, the SC/ST Cell and the Initiative for Caste Equity continue to work towards building a discrimination-free and socially just academic space where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive.
IIT Delhi is firmly committed to promote an inclusive and equitable academic environment. The institute maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards caste-based discrimination in any form, whether overt or subtle, against students, staff, or faculty belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST). Allegations of such discrimination are treated with the utmost seriousness and are addressed through established institutional mechanisms, ensuring accountability and justice.
In line with the University Grants Commission (UGC) mandate, the SC/ST Cell at IIT Delhi plays a central role in safeguarding the rights and interests of SC and ST communities within the institute. It is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of reservation policies in admissions, recruitment, and other institutional processes as outlined by the Government of India. Beyond policy execution, the Cell also functions as a vital support structure for SC/ST students and employees, helping them navigate academic and administrative challenges. To provide holistic support, the institute appoints senior faculty members as advisors to SC/ST students, offering guidance on both academic and non-academic matters. Additionally, anti-discrimination officers have been designated to address specific grievances of SC/ST individuals and ensure timely redressal.