UGC exposes 21 fake universities across India, puts students' futures at risk

In a major crackdown on fraudulent educational institutions, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has exposed 21 fake universities operating across India, warning students about the risks of enrolling in these bogus institutions. The UGC's revelation is a wake-up call for students and parents alike, as these unrecognized and illegal universities have been issuing counterfeit degrees and diplomas, jeopardizing the academic and professional futures of countless individuals.

The UGC's state-wise list of these fraudulent institutions has shaken the education sector, exposing the scale of the issue. The list spans across multiple states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. These institutions have been operating without any recognition or affiliation from the UGC, which is the official body tasked with maintaining the quality and standards of higher education in India.

Among the universities listed in the UGC's expose are several well-known names, including institutions with similar-sounding titles to recognized universities, adding to the confusion for unsuspecting students. Notable entries on the list include Commercial University Ltd. and Vignan University in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar Vishwavidyalaya, and United Nations University in Delhi, as well as Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University in Maharashtra, and St. John’s University in Tamil Nadu, to name a few.

The UGC has strongly urged students to be cautious and diligent when selecting an institution for higher education. They have warned against enrolling in universities that do not appear on the official UGC list, emphasizing the importance of verifying an institution's legitimacy before making any commitments. Students and parents are advised to cross-check the accreditation status of a university by visiting its official website or directly contacting the UGC.

The commission’s efforts are aimed at protecting students from falling prey to these deceptive universities, which not only provide substandard education but also issue degrees that hold no value in the professional world. In response to the alarming rise of these fake institutions, the UGC has pledged to intensify its efforts to combat such frauds and ensure the credibility of India’s higher education sector. For students, this serves as an important reminder to always verify the authenticity of any university before applying or enrolling.