New Delhi, June 24 (INB) The NCERT has warned students, parents, teachers and schools against the circulation of pirated and fake NCERT textbooks in both print and digital formats, an official note said on Wednesday.
NCERT ( National Council of Educational Research and Training ) said In an official statement that it has come to its notice that unauthorized copies of certain textbooks are being circulated even before their official publication and release.
The Council specifically highlighted the circulation of a fake and unofficial version of the Class 9 Social Science textbook, “Understanding Society: India & Beyond” (Part 1), through social media platforms, websites and messaging groups claiming to provide NCERT books and related materials.
NCERT clarified that these channels have no association with or authorization from the Council. It emphasized that all NCERT textbooks are published, printed and distributed only through official channels, and no textbook is authorized for circulation prior to its official release.
The Council warned that materials being shared through unofficial sources may be inaccurate, incomplete, tampered with or entirely fabricated. It advised students, teachers, parents and the general public not to rely on such content for academic purposes.
NCERT further stated that unauthorized printing, reproduction, distribution and digital circulation of its copyrighted materials constitute a punishable offence under the Copyright Act, 1957, and other applicable laws.
The Council urged stakeholders to obtain textbooks only through the official NCERT website, the e-Pathshala platform and authorized vendors and distributors. It also reminded users that digital versions of NCERT textbooks are made available free of cost through official NCERT portals once released.
Calling for greater vigilance, NCERT requested the public not to subscribe to, share or rely on unverified social media channels, websites or applications claiming to offer NCERT books or pre-release study materials.
The Council said it is taking appropriate measures, including legal action, against individuals and entities involved in textbook piracy and the circulation of fake educational content. Information regarding such unauthorized activities can be reported to NCERT through its official channels.
The advisory comes amid growing concerns over the spread of misleading educational content online, underscoring the importance of accessing learning materials only from verified and authorized sources.
