NCERT warns against fake Class 9 social science textbook circulating online
NCERT has issued a public warning after discovering fake and pirated versions of its textbooks circulating online and in print. A counterfeit Class 9 Social Science textbook is among the materials being shared through websites, social media and messaging groups.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued a public warning against the circulation of fake and pirated textbooks after discovering unauthorised versions of its study material being shared online and in print.
Among the books flagged by the council is a counterfeit copy of the new Class 9 Social Science textbook, Understanding Society: India & Beyond, which is being circulated through social media platforms, websites and messaging groups before its official release.
WHAT IS THE CONCERN?
According to NCERT, these unofficial channels have no association with the organisation. The council warned that such materials may be inaccurate, incomplete, altered or entirely fabricated.
The advisory comes at a time when students, parents and teachers increasingly rely on digital platforms to access textbooks and study materials. NCERT has cautioned that relying on unverified versions could lead to confusion and misinformation in classrooms.
The council also stressed that no NCERT textbook is authorised for circulation before its official release. Any pre-release copy being shared online should therefore be treated with caution.
LEGAL ACTION AND OFFICIAL SOURCES
NCERT has said that unauthorised printing, reproduction, distribution and digital circulation of its copyrighted material is illegal and punishable under the Copyright Act, 1957, and other applicable laws.
The organisation has announced that legal action is being initiated against individuals and entities involved in piracy and the circulation of fake educational content.
To avoid falling victim to such materials, students and educators have been advised to obtain textbooks only through official NCERT platforms, the ePathshala portal and authorised vendors.
NCERT has also urged the public not to subscribe to or share unofficial links, applications or social media channels claiming to provide textbooks or advance copies of study material.
As schools increasingly integrate digital resources into learning, the council's message is straightforward: when it comes to textbooks, always verify the source before downloading, sharing or studying from the material. A wrong book can mean learning the wrong lessons.
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued a public warning against the circulation of fake and pirated textbooks after discovering unauthorised versions of its study material being shared online and in print.
Among the books flagged by the council is a counterfeit copy of the new Class 9 Social Science textbook, Understanding Society: India & Beyond, which is being circulated through social media platforms, websites and messaging groups before its official release.
WHAT IS THE CONCERN?
According to NCERT, these unofficial channels have no association with the organisation. The council warned that such materials may be inaccurate, incomplete, altered or entirely fabricated.
The advisory comes at a time when students, parents and teachers increasingly rely on digital platforms to access textbooks and study materials. NCERT has cautioned that relying on unverified versions could lead to confusion and misinformation in classrooms.
The council also stressed that no NCERT textbook is authorised for circulation before its official release. Any pre-release copy being shared online should therefore be treated with caution.
LEGAL ACTION AND OFFICIAL SOURCES
NCERT has said that unauthorised printing, reproduction, distribution and digital circulation of its copyrighted material is illegal and punishable under the Copyright Act, 1957, and other applicable laws.
The organisation has announced that legal action is being initiated against individuals and entities involved in piracy and the circulation of fake educational content.
To avoid falling victim to such materials, students and educators have been advised to obtain textbooks only through official NCERT platforms, the ePathshala portal and authorised vendors.
NCERT has also urged the public not to subscribe to or share unofficial links, applications or social media channels claiming to provide textbooks or advance copies of study material.
As schools increasingly integrate digital resources into learning, the council's message is straightforward: when it comes to textbooks, always verify the source before downloading, sharing or studying from the material. A wrong book can mean learning the wrong lessons.