The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a public notice warning students, parents and general public against taking admission in an autonomous institution operating in Rajasthan. The move comes as part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to curb the spread of fake universities and protect students from fake educational institutions.According to an official notice, the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, located at Mansa Chowk, Bhiwari in Alwar district, has been found to be awarding degrees in violation of the provisions of the UGC Act, 1956. The commission has since included the institution in its official list of fake universities.
Not recognized under the UGC Act.
The UGC has clarified that the Institute is neither recognized under Section 2(f) nor declared as a Deemed University under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. These provisions are necessary for any institution to be authorized to function as a university or to award valid degrees in India.In the absence of such recognition, the institute has no legal authority to offer undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) degree programmes. The Commission further stressed that any degree issued by the institution so far shall not be considered valid for the purposes of higher education or government employment.This means that students obtaining degrees from the said institution may face serious challenges while applying for jobs, competitive exams or further education in recognized institutions.
Students are advised to verify credentials.
In its advisory, the UGC has strongly urged students and parents to exercise caution before taking admission in any institution. He highlighted the importance of verifying whether a university or college is recognized under the relevant provisions of the UGC Act.The commission noted that taking admission in unrecognized or bogus institutions can pose serious risks to a student’s academic pace and career prospects. Students are encouraged to check the official UGC website for the latest list of recognized universities and fake institutes before making admission decisions.
Part of a wider crackdown on fake universities
The latest warning is part of the UGC’s broader initiative to identify and take action against institutions that mislead students by offering unauthorized degrees. The Commission periodically updates its list of fake universities to ensure transparency and awareness among stakeholders.By issuing such public notices, the UGC aims to prevent academic fraud and ensure that students invest their time, effort and resources in legitimate and recognized educational institutions.
