To match global standards of high quality research, in all academic disciplines under its purview, the University Grants Commission (UGC) aspires to stimulate and empower the Indian academia through its “Quality Mandate”. A public notice was issued by the UGC, on the 28th of November, 2018, to announce the establishment of a dedicated Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics (CARE) to carry out this mandate.
UGC has established Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics (CARE) for creating and maintenance of “Reference List of Quality Journals (CARE List)”. Cell for Journals Analysis has been established by UGC at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) Website of UGC CARE is: Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics (unipune.ac.in) UGC Cell at SPPU shall function under the supervision of CARE Empowered Committee (CARE – EC)
To facilitate submission of new journals, UGC has identified four regional Universities as CARE Universities.
Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi (Northern Region)
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara (Western Region)
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad (Southern Region)
Tezpur University, Assam (Eastern Region)
The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) has been given the responsibility for Western Region including the following States and Union Territories:
Gujarat
Maharashtra
Madhya Pradesh
Chhattisgarh
Goa
Diu
Daman
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
UGC-CARE List of Reference Journals
The UGC-CARE List has only TWO groups, instead of the original FOUR groups to simplify the search process. These are NOT hierarchic or ranked groups. UGC-CARE List Group I: Journals found qualified through UGC-CARE protocols UGC-CARE List Group II: Journals indexed in globally recognised databases
Recommending any journal, through the proper proforma and process is free and the UGC does not collect any fees for the same. However, it has come to our attention that universities are charging for such recommendations by their IQAC and other bodies. Researchers, editors and publishers are requested to note that no such charges have been imposed by the UGC.
The UGC-CARE List is dynamic. It shall be updated quarterly i.e. on the first of January, April, July, and October (or on the next working day if there is a public holiday on these dates) every year
How to Recommend the journal?
Please sent an email with basic journal criteria to following email:
Indian Women: Epitome of Inspiration and Inclusivity
Date : March 7th, 2024
· On March 7th, 2024, the WGRC Cell of Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda celebrated International Women's Day with the theme "Indian Women: Epitome of Inspiration and Inclusivity." The event, graced by Hon'ble Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Srivastava, Hon’ble Registrar Dr. K. M. Chudasama, Hon’ble Radhika Raje Gaekwad, Smt. Shailaja Andhare, and Prof. Pranita Sarangi, honored the resilience, strength, and achievements of women worldwide. It raised awareness of gender issues, celebrated the contributions of Indian women, and reaffirmed the commitment to fostering inclusive societies and advancing gender justice.
Reconstruction of Women’s Grievance Redressal, Prevention of Sexual Harassment & Counselling Cell
Date: October,15th 2024
· The Inaugural meeting of the Women’s Grievance Redressal Committee (WGRC) was held at Vasistha Sabhagruh on October,15th 2024, chaired by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor. The objective was to introduce the committee members and promote awareness about the WGRC’s role and responsibilities.
· Ms. Shobhna Raval Gujarat Policewomen Councillor, and Chairperson of the Women Safety Committee, Dr. Dipal Pate, Clinical Counsellor & Psychologist NGO representative, shared her expertise on women’s safety and legal awareness. The Presiding Officer and Director of the committee also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of a responsive and inclusive grievance redressal mechanism.
· Also, in attendance were two MSU employees with legal expertise, staff members committed to the cause of women’s welfare, two members each from the Board of Management and Executive Council, two hostel warden representatives, and two girl student representatives (for student-related matters).
· The meeting underscored the University’s commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and gender-sensitive environment through collaborative efforts.
Gender Sensitization: A March Towards Viksit Bharat. 2047"
Date: February 28, 2025
· On February 28, 2025, the Gender Resource Centre (GRC) at Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) hosted a workshop titled "Gender Sensitization: A March Towards Viksit Bharat. 2047" at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Hall. Supported by SETU and the Department of Women & Child Development, Government of Gujarat, the event aimed to raise awareness on gender issues and empower Students to contribute to an inclusive, developed society by 2047.
· Around 305 students attended, engaging in discussions on gender-based violence, equality, and the role of law enforcement, with notable speakers including Vaishali Parmar (She Team), Shobhana Raval (Counselor, Gujarat), and Women Police personnel. MSU leadership, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Dhanesh Patel, Prof. Dr. Bhavna Mehta, Prof. Padmaja Sudhakar, Prof. Dr. Namrata Luhar, and Hinal Parmar, emphasized the university’s commitment to promoting gender equality.
· The workshop was a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive future, inspiring participants to actively contribute to a society that values gender equality and respect.
Gender Sensitization: A March Towards Viksit Bharat. 2047"
Date March 1, 2025
· On March 1, 2025, the Gender Resource Centre (GRC) at Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) organized a workshop titled "Gender Sensitization: A March Towards Viksit Bharat. 2047" at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Hall. Supported by SETU and the Department of Women & Child Development, Government of Gujarat, the event aimed to raise awareness on gender issues and empower MSU Staff to contribute to a more inclusive society by 2047.
· Around 150 teaching and non-teaching staff attended, engaging in discussions on gender-based violence, equality, and the role of law enforcement. Notable speakers included Panna Momaya (DCP), Shobhana Raval (Counselor, Gujarat), and Women Police personnel. MSU leadership, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Dhanesh Patel, Prof. Dr. Bhavna Mehta, Prof. Padmaja Sudhakar, Sarita Sinha (Consultant), Prof. Haribhai Kataria, and Hinal Parmar, emphasized the university’s commitment to gender equality.
· The workshop inspired participants to actively contribute to building a society that values gender equality and respect.
ACCELERATE ACTION WITH ALL WOMEN EMPLOYEES
Date March 1, 2025
· The Maharaja Sayajirao University (Head Office) celebrated International Women’s Day on March 10, 2025, with the participation of all women employees. The event aimed to accelerate actions for women's empowerment, around 70 women attended the program. The program was organized by the Women's Grievance Redressal Counseling Cell.
· One effective way to ensure more women feature in your leadership team is by fostering sponsorship programs. An organization can change the world for women. Veering away from being a traditional workplace requires thinking differently. Like normalizing modern family structures, which includes same-sex relationships, for instance. These gestures speak volumes towards your support of inclusivity, empowering female employees, and your commitment towards seeing women succeed.
Awareness Programme on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013
A.Y (2025-26)
The Women's Grievance Redressal and Counselling Cell (WGRC) of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda organized a series of awareness programmes on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013 across various faculties, institutes, and Halls of Residence - university hostels (Boys & Girls) during the academic year 2025–2026. The objective of these programmes was to create awareness among students about the provisions of the POSH Act, promote gender sensitivity, encourage a safe and respectful campus environment, and inform students about the University's grievance redressal mechanism.
The programmes were conducted according to the following schedule:
Date
Faculty/Institute
08 October 2025
Faculty of Journalism and Communication
10 October 2025
Faculty of Education & Psychology
10 October 2025
M.K. Amin Arts and Science College & College of Commerce, Padra
15 October 2025
Faculty of Pharmacy
27 November 2025
Baroda Sanskrit Mahavidyalay
31 December 2025
Faculty of Commerce
09 January 2026
Faculty of Social Work
20 January 2026
Halls of Residence – Boys Hostel
21 January 2026
Halls of Residence – Girls Hostel
Approximately 700 students participated in these awareness programmes.
The awareness programmes were organized under the guidance of the Women's Grievance Redressal and Counselling Cell (WGRC) of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. The committee comprises Prof. (Dr.) Bhavna Mehta (Director), Prof. Dhanesh Patel (Member), Dr. Archana Gadekar (Member), Mrs. Shobhana Raval (Member), Dr. Mayank Vyas (Member), and Prof. Padmaja Sudhakar (Member Secretary). In accordance with the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013, Prof. Namrata Luhar serves as the member possessing legal knowledge, while Ms. Hiral Parmar is a member representing employees who are committed to the cause of women.
The programme commenced with an introduction highlighting the objectives of the awareness initiative and the importance of creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful academic environment. Prof. (Dr.) Bhavna Mehta delivered the keynote address, explaining the salient features of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013. She discussed the rights and responsibilities of students and employees, the functions of the Internal Committee, the complaint redressal mechanism, and the procedures for reporting incidents of sexual harassment.
Prof. Namrata Luhar, as the member with legal knowledge, explained the legal framework of the POSH Act, emphasizing gender sensitivity, ethical conduct, equality, and the legal safeguards available to victims. She encouraged participants to uphold dignity, mutual respect, and a culture of zero tolerance towards sexual harassment.
Ms. Hiral Parmar, representing employees committed to the cause of women, provided detailed information on the University's complaint redressal process, support mechanisms available to aggrieved persons, the importance of confidentiality during inquiry proceedings, and the need for timely reporting of grievances. Dr. Archana Gadekar concluded the session by addressing participants' queries, clarifying misconceptions regarding the POSH Act, and encouraging students to actively contribute towards maintaining a safe, respectful, and harassment-free campus.
The programmes were graced by the presence of the Deans, Principals, and Wardens of the respective faculties, institutes, and halls of residence. Their active participation and support significantly contributed to the success of the awareness initiatives. They appreciated the efforts of the Women's Grievance Redressal and Counselling Cell in organizing these programmes and expressed positive feedback, emphasizing the importance of conducting such awareness sessions regularly to foster a safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive campus environment.
The interactive sessions witnessed enthusiastic participation from approximately 700 students across the various faculties, institutes, and halls of residence. The awareness programmes successfully enhanced participants' understanding of the provisions of the POSH Act, 2013, strengthened awareness of the University's grievance redressal mechanism, and reinforced the collective responsibility of fostering a secure, respectful, and gender-sensitive educational environment.
WGRC Committee
Internal Complaint Committee under Women’s Grievances Redressal & Counselling Cell.
Sr. No
Name of the Members
1
Prof. (Dr.) Bhavna Mehta – Faculty of Social Work – Director - IQAC
Chairperson
2
Prof. Dhanesh Patel – Dean – Faculty of Technology & engineering
Member
3
Dr. Archana Gadekar – Faculty of law
Member
4
Mrs. Shobhana Raval , Gujarat Police Women Councilor, and Chairman Women’s Safety Committee
Member
5
Dr. Mayanak Vyas – Joint Registrar
Member
6
Prof. Padmaja S. – Faculty of Science
Member
Reconstitution of Women's Grievance Redressal, Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Counselling Cell
Sr.No
Designation
Name
1
A Presiding Officer/ Director
Prof. (Dr.) Bhavna Mehta
Faculty of Social work
2
Two Employees having legal knowledge
Dr. Archana Gadekar- Faculty of Law
Dr. Namrata Luhar- Faculty of Law
3
Members amongst employees who are committed to the cause of women
Ms. Hiral Pannar
Faculty of Social Work
4
Members from Non-Governmental Organization
1.Ms. Shobhana Raval-Gujarat Police women Councilor and Women Safety Committee.
 Apurva M. Shah.jpeg)