Here’s a blog post on the University Grants Commission (UGC)’s latest warning about 22 fake universities operating in India, with several based in Delhi:
22 Fake Universities in India: UGC Issues Fresh Warning, Delhi Institute on List
Every year, thousands of students chase their academic dreams, only to fall prey to fraudulent institutions operating under the guise of universities. In October 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has once again sounded a loud alarm—22 fake universities are currently functioning across India, with Delhi topping the list.
What Did the UGC Find?
The UGC, the governing body for higher education in India, recently warned students and parents against enrolling in the “Institute of Management and Engineering” in Delhi’s Kotla Mubarakpur for offering unapproved degree programmes. According to UGC, this institute is not recognised under the UGC Act, 1956, making any degree it grants academically and professionally invalid.
This is not an isolated incident. The UGC’s latest advisory is part of a concerted crackdown on self-styled, unrecognised “universities” that keep cropping up in India’s education landscape. These dubious entities often use credible-sounding names—incorporating words like “National,” “Technology,” or “Management”—to lure unsuspecting students.indiatoday+2
Where Are These Fake Universities Located?
The map of fake universities in India, as per UGC’s official data, looks like this:
-
Delhi: 9 to 10 fake universities, including the infamous Institute of Management and Engineering.
-
Uttar Pradesh: 4 to 5 such bogus entities, often using names like “Vidyapith,” “Parishad,” or “Open University.”
-
Others: The rest are scattered across Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Puducherry.eduadvice+2
Delhi’s dominance is no accident—it’s driven by a large student population, anonymity, and thriving networks of middlemen. Institutes here frequently disguise themselves to appear credible, while those in UP mimic traditional distance-learning names.indiatoday+1
Why It Matters: The Risks of Fake Degrees
Degrees from these unrecognized institutions hold no legal validity in India. Graduates may find their qualifications rejected by employers and reputable universities. Moreover, investing time and money into such organisations leads only to frustration and career setbacks.
UGC’s Advice to Students
-
Always verify the recognition status of a university or institute via the UGC’s official website before taking admission.
-
Be skeptical of unknown institutions offering low-cost, easy-entry degree programmes.
-
Report any suspicious institutions to the authorities to safeguard your own and others’ futures.
Conclusion
The UGC’s war against fake universities is ongoing, but vigilance from students and parents is crucial. Education is a major investment. Make sure yours—and your degree—are worth it by enrolling only in UGC-recognized institutions.