The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued a warning cautioning students against the circulation of pirated and unauthorised NCERT textbooks in both print and digital formats. It has been observed that certain NCERT textbooks are being circulated through unofficial channels, sometimes even before their official publication and release.
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NCERT Flags Fake Class 9 Social Science Textbook
NCERT has specifically highlighted the circulation of a fake and unofficial copy of the Class 9 Social Science textbook, ‘Understanding Society: India & Beyond (Part 1).’
The Council stated that the book is being shared through social media channels, websites, and messaging groups that claim to provide NCERT textbooks and related educational materials. NCERT clarified that these channels have no association with it.
NCERT Clarifies Official Textbook Release Process
The latest New NCERT Textbooks Advisory states that NCERT textbooks are released only through official NCERT channels.
According to NCERT, textbooks circulated before their official release should be treated as unofficial.
Concerns Over Accuracy of Unofficial Content
NCERT has warned that the content shared through unauthorised sources may be inaccurate, incomplete, altered, or entirely fabricated. It has advised students, parents, teachers, and schools to rely on the official and authentic NCERT updates.
Pirated NCERT Books Can Lead to Legal Action
The advisory states that unauthorised printing, distribution, or digital sharing of NCERT textbooks is a punishable offence under the Copyright Act, 1957. NCERT has also said that legal action is being taken against those involved in NCERT textbook piracy.
Download NCERT Books Only From Official Sources
NCERT has advised students to access NCERT books only through official channels, including:
- NCERT Textbook Portal
- ePathshala NCERT App
- Authorised NCERT vendors and distributors
Avoid Unofficial NCERT Sources
The Council urges students not to rely on unofficial websites, social media channels, apps, or messaging groups claiming to provide NCERT PDFs, online NCERT textbooks, or pre-release study material.
Report Fake NCERT Books and Unauthorised Content
NCERT has requested the public to report any information related to fake NCERT books, pirated NCERT textbooks, or unauthorised educational material.
Important Links
Conclusion
NCERT has warned against fake NCERT books and unauthorised PDFs, advising students to rely only on official sources.
Source
The official press release by NCERT, 24 June, 2026. Click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per NCERT, Education Ministry, and Government of India.
