The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently issued a public warning about three institutions that are not allowed to offer college degrees. These institutions are located in New Delhi , Solapur (Maharashtra) , and Tumkur (Karnataka) . The UGC stated clearly that these places are either "fake universities" or are simply not recognised to give out degrees under the UGC Act, 1956 . This means any degree a student gets from these institutions will not be valid or accepted across India.
Students looking to join higher education courses and their parents must be very careful. Before paying fees or starting any course, it is important to check if a university or college is officially recognised by the UGC. Getting a degree from an unrecognised institution can lead to a waste of time, money, and future career chances.
UGC's Warning: The Unrecognised Institutions
The UGC named three specific institutions in its recent notices. Here are the details about each one:
| Institution Name | Location | Status by UGC |
| National Backward Krushi Vidypeeth | Solapur, Maharashtra | Not Recognised |
| National Institute of Management Solutions | Janakpuri, New Delhi | Not a University |
| Sarva Bharatiya Shiksha Peeth | Tumkur, Karnataka | Not Recognised, Not Degree-Granting |
National Backward Krushi Vidypeeth, Solapur (Maharashtra)
The UGC has made it clear that National Backward Krushi Vidypeeth in Solapur is not recognised by the UGC. This means it cannot give any Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees. Some information online might suggest it is a recognised agricultural university, but the official UGC warning says it is not approved to give degrees under the UGC Act. Students should not enrol in any degree programmes offered by this institution.
National Institute of Management Solutions, Janakpuri, New Delhi
The National Institute of Management Solutions , located in Janakpuri, New Delhi , is also not recognised as a university by the UGC. It cannot offer any Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programmes, whether they are full-time or through distance learning. Also, this institute cannot admit students for degree programmes on behalf of any other university. Students must understand that any degree from this institute is not valid.
Sarva Bharatiya Shiksha Peeth, Tumkur (Karnataka)
The Sarva Bharatiya Shiksha Peeth (SBSP) , promoted as an educational institution, is also not recognised by the UGC as a university or as a body that can grant degrees. Reports also suggest that this institution stopped its academic activities in June 2022 . Even if it were operating, it is not authorised to give out valid degrees. Students should avoid any programmes linked to Sarva Bharatiya Shiksha Peeth.
Why UGC Issues Such Warnings
The UGC is the main body in India that sets rules for higher education. Its job is to make sure that universities and colleges meet certain standards and that the degrees they offer are valid. These warnings are part of UGC's ongoing efforts to protect students from fake or unrecognised institutions. The UGC regularly checks institutions to ensure they follow rules, like being transparent about their recognition status.
Before these recent notices, the UGC had also warned many private universities for not being open about their information, which is a rule under Section 13 of the UGC Act . This shows that the UGC is serious about maintaining the quality and trustworthiness of higher education in India.
How Students Can Protect Themselves
- Always Check the Official List: Before applying for admission to any university or college, always visit the official UGC website (ugc.gov.in). Look for the list of recognised universities. This list is updated regularly.
- Verify Recognition Status: If you are unsure about an institution, you can directly contact the UGC for clarification. Do not rely on advertisements or claims made by the institution itself without cross-checking.
- Talk to Experts: Speak to school counsellors, teachers, or education experts who can guide you on choosing recognised institutions.
- Beware of Unusual Promises: Be cautious of institutions that promise easy degrees, very low fees for high-demand courses, or quick graduation without proper academic rigour.
Taking these simple steps will help you ensure that your hard work and money are spent on a legitimate education that will open doors for your future career.
