NCERT warns against fake Class 9 social science textbook circulating online

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.

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.