New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a public advisory warning students and parents against fraudulent degrees issued by unrecognised institutions.

The commission stated that only universities established under a State, Central, or Provincial Act, or those specifically empowered under the UGC Act, 1956, are authorised to grant degrees. Degrees from non-recognised institutions will be deemed invalid for higher education and employment purposes, the UGC reiterated.

“The UGC has identified several institutions violating its provisions by awarding unauthorised degrees. Such degrees will not be considered for academic or job-related purposes,” the commission stated in its notice.

Action Against Bogus Universities

In February, Union Minister Dr Sukanta Majumdar informed the Lok Sabha that 21 institutions had been flagged as fake universities on the UGC website. He emphasised that state governments are responsible for enforcing legal action against such entities. The Centre has urged state Chief Secretaries and Union Territory administrators to initiate legal proceedings against these institutions and their operators.

Since 2014, 12 fake universities have been shut down. The UGC has lodged FIRs and issued show-cause notices against unauthorised institutions to prevent student exploitation. Students are advised to verify university credentials before enrollment.