In a statement made on Monday in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, revealed that the government has shut down a total of 12 fake universities between 2014 and 2024. This move is part of the government's ongoing efforts to ensure the credibility of higher education in India and protect students from fraudulent institutions that are not authorized to confer degrees or diplomas.
Majumdar further emphasized that the central government has taken a proactive stance in addressing the issue of fake universities operating across the country. The Ministry of Education has directed the chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories (UTs) to take swift legal action against these illegitimate institutions, which often mislead students and charge them hefty fees for non-recognized courses.
In response to a question raised in the Lok Sabha, Majumdar informed MPs that there are currently 21 fake universities still operating in various states. These institutions are not recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or any other competent authority. The government has urged MPs to raise awareness about these institutions among the public, particularly students, and warn them against enrolling in programs that could harm their academic and professional future.
The closure of these fake universities is part of a larger effort to safeguard the interests of students, who may be unaware of the legal and academic implications of joining such institutions. The government has stressed the importance of students verifying the accreditation of universities and courses before making educational decisions.
Students are advised to consult the official UGC website, which regularly updates a list of recognized universities, and to be cautious when choosing educational institutions. It is crucial for students to ensure that the universities they apply to are properly authorized and accredited to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes that promise degrees without the necessary legal and academic backing.
The government has committed to working closely with state and UT governments to continue combating the issue of fake universities and ensure that students receive quality education from legitimate and reputable institutions. Through this initiative, the government aims to maintain the integrity of the education system and protect the future of India's youth.
