IEEI

About Pride Circle

India’s premier Diversity & Inclusion organization with a mission to enable and empower the LGBT+ community, Allies, Educational Institutions, Organizations, and Society in fostering a culture of belonging for all. We partner with over 500+ companies & educational institutions across India offering a comprehensive, best-in-class consulting & advocacy programs, coaching & professional networking opportunities that enables them to foster safe, inclusive and welcoming work environments.

Pride-Ed (Pride In Education) is one of the key verticals in Pride Circle that has been working passionately & relentlessly with schools and colleges with an aim to support & empower teachers, students (LGBT+ & Allies) & parents to foster safe, welcoming & LGBT+ inclusive campuses. Our mission is to create an educational ecosystem that celebrates diversity, addresses the needs and gaps in LGBT+ inclusion, and fosters understanding and acceptance.

About India Education Equality Index [IEEI]

India Education Equality Index (IEEI), a pioneering initiative by Pride Circle, is India's first and only benchmarking tool dedicated to measuring LGBT+ inclusion within educational institutions. Launched in January 2024, IEEI empowers colleges and universities to self-assess and monitor their progress in creating safe, respectful, and inclusive environments for all students, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or sex characteristics (SOGIESC).

Employing a comprehensive framework of benchmarks and inclusion indicators, IEEI meticulously evaluates the current state of LGBT+ inclusion in Indian educational institutions. This initiative aims to guide institutions in self-evaluation and identify areas for improvement, ultimately fostering more inclusive campuses.

IEEI offers a structured, open or anonymous framework for institutions to assess existing practices, pinpoint areas needing enhancement, and implement effective strategies to strengthen LGBT+ inclusion across 7 key themes. This initiative empowers educational institutions to embark on a transformative journey towards creating welcoming and inclusive environments for all.

Join the IEEI and build a truly inclusive campus for all. Start your journey today and see the impact!

Introducing Corporate Award Categories [NEW]

We're excited to unveil 2 new Corporate Award Categories at the India Education Equality Index (IEEI) 2025, celebrating the changemakers creating inclusive spaces for LGBT+ and Ally students across campuses, classrooms, and careers.

These awards spotlight individuals and organizations leading the way in fostering belonging, visibility, and inclusion in education.

How It Works

Each category will accept one nomination per category per organization.
You may choose to apply for one or both categories.
Winning submissions will be featured in the IEEI 2025 Report.

As a visible and vocal role model and an industry leader in fostering an inclusive culture, your organization stands at the forefront of creating workplaces and communities where everyone belongs. We know you're deeply committed to making a difference, and that's why we invite you to apply for this award category.

Get in touch with us to learn more

IEEI Timeline 2025

The Index is a 8-month long process.

Mark your calendars and join us on this transformative journey!

Message from the Founder’s Desk

I am honored to introduce the India Education Equality Index (IEEI), a revolutionary initiative by Pride Circle. As educators, we have a duty to nurture not just academic achievement, but also the holistic well-being of our students. Yet, the reality for many LGBT+ students in India is one of bullying and exclusion. This not only inflicts emotional harm but hinders their academic potential.

A 2019 UNESCO report revealed that 60% of LGBT+ youth in India face bullying, and 43% experience sexual harassment in educational institutions. These statistics are a clarion call. The India Education Equality Index (IEEI) is our answer. This framework assesses the state of LGBT+ inclusion, empowering institutions to create safe and respectful spaces for all students.

The call to action is clear:

- Educational Institutions: Join the IEEI and embark on a path towards genuine inclusivity. Participate in the self-assessment process and witness the transformative impact it can have on your students' lives.

- Students: Be your voice and a voice for your peers. Demand a learning environment free from discrimination and brimming with inclusivity.

- Companies: Support and empower the IEEI. Together, let's ensure every student feels equipped to reach their full potential.

Let us join hands and build a future where education fosters inclusivity, respect, and the boundless potential of every student in India.