NCERT Issues Advisory on Copyright Infringement in Educational Materials

In a recent development, NCERT has raised concerns over the unauthorized reproduction of its school textbooks by certain unscrupulous publishers.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has taken a decisive stance against copyright infringement concerning its educational materials. NCERT, entrusted with the task of crafting and disseminating textbooks across all levels of school education, has long been recognized as the authorized custodian of educational teaching and learning resources.

In a recent development, NCERT has raised concerns over the unauthorized reproduction of its school textbooks by certain unscrupulous publishers. These publishers have been found printing NCERT textbooks, readily available on the NCERT website, under their own names without securing permission from NCERT.

It has been explicitly stated by NCERT that any individual or entity engaged in the commercial sale of NCERT textbooks, either in entirety or partially, or utilizing the content of NCERT textbooks in their publications without obtaining proper copyright permissions, will face legal repercussions in accordance with the Copyright Act of 1957.

The general public is earnestly urged to refrain from patronizing such textbooks or workbooks, as their content may not only be factually inaccurate but also run contrary to the fundamental principles outlined in the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) of 2023. Individuals who encounter such pirated textbooks or workbooks are encouraged to promptly notify NCERT via email at pd.ncert@nic.in.

Moreover, any publisher wishing to incorporate the NCERT name in their publications must submit a proposal to the Publication Division of NCERT. This step ensures compliance with copyright regulations and upholds the integrity of educational materials in circulation.

NCERT remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding intellectual property rights and ensuring the dissemination of accurate and authentic educational resources for the benefit of learners nationwide.