Prayagraj: Ahead of the 2026-27 academic session, UP Board authorities have issued a stern warning against unauthorised publishers attempting to circulate unapproved textbooks in over 29,000 affiliated schools.Board authorities flagged instances where certain publishers allegedly misled students and parents by selling books under the NCERT name without authorisation. Some also spread confusion by claiming that UP Board schools were free to prescribe any textbook. Officials clarified that this claim was incorrect and violated norms. “A notification issued on Jan 8 specified that only textbooks published by authorised publishers would be permitted in govt, aided and self-financed schools. Students cannot be forced to purchase expensive, unauthorised textbooks or guidebooks. Strict legal action will be initiated against violators,” board secretary Bhagwati Singh said. The board’s authority was also upheld by the high court, which dismissed petitions filed by certain publishers challenging its powers. The court observed that the board has the exclusive right to determine textbooks for high school and intermediate classes. It further noted that any publisher found violating laws could face legal consequences. The board has sought action against those spreading misinformation regarding the examinations. Acting on a report from the board, inspector general (law and order) LR Kumar directed the police commissionerate to take steps against YouTube channels spreading false claims, including rumours of question paper leaks.
