In a major move to safeguard the integrity of higher education, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has intensified the fake degree crackdown India in 2025. The crackdown aims to identify and penalize unauthorized universities and institutions operating without recognition, while protecting students from falling victim to fraudulent academic programs.
As part of this nationwide campaign, the UGC has released an updated blacklist of fake universities that have been issuing degrees without proper accreditation. The action is part of a broader effort to clean up the education system and ensure that students receive legitimate and verifiable qualifications.
Why the Fake Degree Crackdown Matters in 2025
With rising competition in the job market and an increase in online and distance education platforms, the risk of fake institutions deceiving students has grown significantly. The fake degree crackdown India in 2025 is designed to bring accountability, enforce quality education, and prevent future scams in the academic sector.
Key objectives of this crackdown:
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Identify institutions awarding degrees without UGC approval
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Penalize repeat offenders with legal action and fines
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Make public the names of blacklisted universities
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Educate students and parents about how to verify legitimate institutions
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Strengthen collaborations with law enforcement and cybercrime units
The fake degree crackdown India also includes setting up an AI-driven verification system where students and employers can validate academic records in real time.
List of Blacklisted Universities in 2025
As part of the fake degree crackdown India, the UGC has issued a revised list of 20+ universities that are not authorized to award degrees. These institutions have been found operating without required approvals or continuing illegal operations despite earlier warnings.
Some of the blacklisted institutions include:
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Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj, Delhi
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United Nations University, Delhi
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ADR-Centric Juridical University, New Delhi
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Indian Institute of Science and Engineering, New Delhi
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Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Karnataka
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St. John’s University, Kerala
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Raja Arabic University, Nagpur
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Maithili University/Vishwavidyalaya, Bihar
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National University of Electro Complex Homeopathy, Kanpur
The complete and updated list can be accessed through the official UGC website or regional education boards. These institutions are not permitted to use the terms “university” or “degree” in any official capacity under the UGC Act 1956.
Legal Action and Student Support
The fake degree crackdown India has also resulted in legal action against institutions and their management. FIRs have been filed in multiple states, and cases are being handled under sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to cheating, forgery, and misrepresentation.
Steps being taken to protect affected students:
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UGC has set up a dedicated helpline for student grievances
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Verification cells have been activated in all state education departments
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Students from blacklisted universities may be allowed to transfer credits to recognized institutions (subject to evaluation)
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Affected candidates will get assistance in applying for legitimate distance or open education programs
The goal is not just punishment, but also rehabilitation for students unknowingly enrolled in these unrecognized programs during the fake degree crackdown India.
How to Verify a Recognized University
To avoid being duped by fraudulent entities, students are encouraged to verify institutions before applying. Here’s how to check legitimacy:
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Visit the official UGC website and look for the updated list of recognized universities
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Ensure the institute is listed under Central, State, Deemed, or Private Universities
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Cross-check with AICTE, MCI, and NAAC for course-specific accreditation
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Avoid institutions offering degrees in exchange for donations or short-course certifications
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Use the UGC’s e-samadhan portal for complaints and verification assistance
The fake degree crackdown India is helping build a culture of awareness, transparency, and responsible academic choices among Indian youth.
FAQs
What is the fake degree crackdown India 2025?
The fake degree crackdown India is a UGC-led operation targeting unauthorized universities and institutions issuing degrees without approval.
How can I check if a university is fake?
You can verify any university’s status on the official UGC website or contact the UGC grievance cell as part of the fake degree crackdown India process.
What happens if I unknowingly studied at a blacklisted university?
Students who were unaware may be eligible for support, including credit transfers or legal aid, under the fake degree crackdown India student relief framework.
Are there any penalties for fake institutions?
Yes. Under the fake degree crackdown India, institutions face criminal charges, including jail terms, fines, and closure of operations.
Is distance education also affected?
Only unrecognized and unapproved distance education centers are being targeted under the fake degree crackdown India. Recognized open universities remain unaffected.
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