Introduction
For Indian PhD scholars, academic faculty, and early-career researchers, publishing in a UGC-CARE journal is not just a good practice—it’s often a requirement. UGC-CARE (Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics) aims to ensure quality control in research publication by maintaining a dynamic list of legitimate and credible journals. But many scholars still struggle with one simple question: where do you actually find this list, and how can you be sure it’s up to date?
Understanding UGC-CARE’s Purpose
The UGC-CARE List was established by the University Grants Commission to combat the growing menace of predatory and low-quality publications. It replaces the older “UGC Approved List of Journals” and now emphasizes transparency, ethics, and academic rigor. For faculty promotions, PhD submissions, and research funding applications, journals listed in the UGC-CARE List are considered valid and credible.
Two Groups of Journals
The UGC-CARE List is divided into two broad groups:
- Group I: Journals that are evaluated and recommended by UGC-CARE member universities in India.
- Group II: Journals that are indexed in globally recognized databases such as Scopus and Web of Science.
Both groups are considered reliable, but Indian scholars are especially encouraged to prioritize Group I journals when publishing on region-specific or India-focused topics.
Step-by-Step: How to Find the UGC-CARE Journal List
While we’re not including links, here is the process to find the UGC-CARE List using standard search tools:
- Use a Trustworthy Browser: Go to your preferred web browser and type in keywords such as “UGC CARE List Official”.
- Locate the Official Portal: Look for the official UGC-CARE website maintained by UGC or its designated nodal university. Avoid third-party or coaching websites.
- Create an Account (Optional): Some features, like journal recommendations, may require a free login.
- Search by Field or Subject: The list is categorized by discipline (Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts, etc.) and you can filter based on language, country, publisher, or ISSN.
- Cross-Check Journal Details: Carefully verify the journal’s ISSN, publisher, and subject area. Use the date of the last update to ensure you’re checking the current list.
Warning Signs to Avoid
Just being told that a journal is “UGC-approved” isn’t enough. Many fake journals misuse this tag. Here are red flags to watch for:
- Journal name is misspelled or formatted oddly.
- No ISSN or mismatch with official records.
- Offers unrealistically fast publication timelines.
- Charges hidden fees after submission.
- Website looks unprofessional or has inconsistent information.
When in doubt, always go back to the UGC-CARE database and verify directly.
How Often the List Is Updated
The UGC-CARE List is updated quarterly. A journal that was on the list last year might be removed today for failing quality checks or ethical standards. Before you submit a manuscript or report your publication, it’s crucial to reconfirm that the journal is still listed in the current quarter.
Why It Matters for Indian Researchers
From the NAAC accreditation process to faculty selection, UGC-CARE journals play a central role in evaluating research contributions. For PhD students, especially those in private or state universities, publishing in a UGC-listed journal often determines the acceptance of your thesis and the recognition of your work in academic circles.
When to Ask for Guidance
If you’re unsure about a journal, don’t hesitate to consult:
- Your research supervisor or PhD guide.
- College research cell or IQAC (Internal Quality Assurance Cell).
- UGC regional centres or official university support desks.
Never rely on word-of-mouth or WhatsApp forwards about which journals are “approved.”
Conclusion
Finding a journal on the UGC-CARE List isn’t difficult—but ensuring that it’s current, legitimate, and relevant to your field requires care and due diligence. As a researcher, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your work is not only original but also published through credible platforms. Always rely on the official list, double-check every detail, and stay updated each quarter. That’s the surest way to ensure your research holds its value in India’s academic landscape.