In a major crackdown against counterfeit educational materials, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) joined forces with the Delhi Police Crime Branch to seize about 32,000 fake NCERT textbooks from an illegal printing operation in Ghaziabad. The operation was part of an intelligence‑led effort to curb the spread of pirated books that mislead students and undermine the quality of education. Officials said the fake books not only deprived authors and publishers of rightful earnings but also posed a risk to learners relying on outdated or incorrect content.
NCERT’s publication officials worked closely with police to identify suspicious printing activities and take swift action, reflecting growing concerns over textbook piracy at a time when the demand for authentic study materials is high due to board exams and competitive tests. Authorities highlighted how such unlawful distribution exploits students who may seek cheaper alternatives without realising the risks involved.
Following the raid, NCERT issued a public advisory urging parents, schools, and students to purchase textbooks only from authorised vendors to ensure they receive genuine content that aligns with the official curriculum. The advisory also included tips on identifying authentic books by checking security features and publisher marks.
Education experts say the seizure underscores a wider challenge in India’s education supply chain where fake materials have long circulated, especially near exam seasons. They argue that strengthening distribution oversight and awareness campaigns can help protect learners and uphold academic standards nationwide.
This development comes at a critical time as many students prepare for upcoming board and entrance exams, making access to authentic textbooks more important than ever for their academic success.
