NCERT Warning! Beware of Fake Books Circulating on Social Media

If you are waiting for new NCERT books and are downloading them from social media or messaging groups, please exercise caution. NCERT has warned that pirated and unauthorized copies of several of its books are being circulated across social media, websites, and messaging platforms; relying on these versions could be risky.

According to NCERT, a fake and unauthorized version of the Class 9 Social Science book recently went viral on social media. Many websites and online platforms are distributing it to students, claiming it to be the genuine NCERT book, even though it has no connection to the organization.

NCERT stated that its books are published and released solely through official channels. No book is permitted to be shared publicly prior to its official launch. Consequently, any material available on social media or other unauthorized sources could be incorrect, incomplete, tampered with, or entirely fake.

NCERT’s Appeal

NCERT has urged students and teachers to obtain books only from official sources. Digital versions are available for free on the NCERT website and the ePathshala portal, while printed copies can be purchased from authorized vendors.

Impact on Studies

In light of this, it is advisable to avoid social media pages, apps, links, or groups that claim to provide NCERT books or study material prior to their official release. Content found on such platforms can be misleading and may adversely affect students’ studies.

An Offense

Taking a firm stance, NCERT has declared that the unauthorized printing, republication, distribution, or digital sharing of its copyrighted material constitutes a legal offense. This is punishable under the Copyright Act of 1957 and other relevant laws.

𝐁𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐓 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬

NCERT has noticed the circulation of unauthorized and pirated copies of its textbooks in print and digital formats. A fake version of the 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐈𝐗 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟏… pic.twitter.com/Ep3FfOmO8M

— NCERT (@ncert) June 24, 2026

Legal Action to Follow

The NCERT has stated that legal action is being initiated against those involved in the production of counterfeit books and piracy. Consequently, students and parents are advised not to rely on any unauthorized material and to use only official sources.

New Controversy Over a Book

Meanwhile, a controversy has also arisen regarding the NCERT’s Class 6 Kannada textbook, ‘Krishna’. The education rights organization PAFRE has alleged that the book promotes religious references and vegetarianism; however, the NCERT has clarified that the book is named after Karnataka’s Krishna River and provides information solely on a balanced diet, without promoting any specific dietary habits or religious ideology.