New Delhi, June 3, 2025: In a major crackdown on book piracy, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has exposed a large-scale operation involving the printing and distribution of fake NCERT books. Over the past 14 months, authorities have seized more than 5 lakh counterfeit NCERT textbooks and related printing materials worth over ₹20 crore.
NCERT Launches Anti-Piracy Drive
Taking a firm stance against educational material piracy, NCERT launched an extensive campaign to stop the illegal printing and sale of its books. Working in coordination with police departments across multiple states, the council has so far filed 29 FIRs and carried out raids at several locations, targeting warehouses, printing presses, and suppliers.
Raids in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi
One of the biggest breakthroughs came in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, where NCERT officials and state police raided a warehouse and seized over 1.5 lakh fake books, a truck, two vehicles, and multiple printing plates. Eight individuals were arrested during this operation.
A similar raid in Samalkha, Haryana, led to the seizure of illegal printing machines, fake textbooks, and printing plates. Investigators are currently working to track down the mastermind behind this organized racket.
In Delhi’s Shahdara district, police recovered around 1.7 lakh fake NCERT books from a warehouse in Alipur, with an estimated value of ₹2.4 crore. Three suspects were arrested during the raid.
Additionally, a paper mill in Kashipur was found to be producing paper with a fake NCERT watermark—a unique identifier used to prevent counterfeiting.
High-Tech Solutions to Combat Piracy
To strengthen its fight against piracy, NCERT is introducing a technology-based anti-piracy solution developed by IIT Kanpur. This new system will be implemented in all NCERT books starting from the next academic session, helping students, parents, and educators identify genuine textbooks easily.
Major Initiatives by NCERT
As part of its anti-piracy initiative, NCERT has taken several steps:
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Improved printing and paper quality of textbooks
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Ensured timely and sufficient availability of books
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Made books accessible at MRP with free delivery on e-commerce platforms
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Strict action against those involved in printing and selling fake books
Public Support Requested
NCERT has urged students, parents, and teachers to report any incidents of fake book sales. Complaints can be sent via email to pd.ncert@nic.in. The council has emphasized that legal action will continue against anyone involved in the counterfeiting network.
Conclusion
This extensive operation reveals the magnitude of fake book circulation in India and the urgent need for awareness and enforcement. With advanced technology and coordinated efforts, NCERT aims to protect the integrity of educational content and ensure that students receive only genuine, high-quality textbooks.