The Directorate of Higher Education (DHE), Maharashtra, has issued a strict warning to all higher education institutions against the creation of incorrect or dummy APAAR IDs for students. The directive was issued on December 16 and makes it clear that colleges must ensure APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) IDs are generated only through proper verification and approved procedures. The education department has cautioned that any misuse or shortcut in the process will attract serious action.
I am writing about this development because APAAR IDs are becoming central to how student academic records are tracked and verified across the country. Over the past year, many colleges have been under pressure to complete APAAR-related work quickly, and in some cases, this has reportedly led to incorrect practices. Creating dummy IDs may seem like an easy fix to meet deadlines, but it can cause long-term problems for students, especially when records are linked to exams, admissions, or scholarships. This warning from the DHE sends a clear message that accuracy and accountability matter more than speed when it comes to student data.
What the DHE Warning Says
The Directorate of Higher Education has instructed colleges to strictly follow official guidelines while generating APAAR IDs. Institutions have been told not to create placeholder or dummy IDs under any circumstances.
The department has also made it clear that responsibility will lie with the institution if incorrect entries are found.
Why APAAR IDs Are Important
APAAR IDs serve as a permanent academic identity for students, linking their educational records across institutions and academic years. These IDs are meant to ensure transparency, portability, and accuracy of student data.
Any error in APAAR records can affect admissions, examination registration, and future academic verification.
Issues Reported by the Education Department
According to officials, instances have come to light where colleges created incorrect or temporary APAAR IDs to complete submissions on time. Such practices defeat the purpose of the system and create confusion in the central database.
The warning aims to prevent these errors from spreading further.
Instructions Issued to Colleges
Colleges have been directed to:
- Verify student details thoroughly before generating APAAR IDs
- Avoid creating IDs without proper student documentation
- Correct any existing errors immediately through official channels
- Ensure staff handling APAAR data are properly trained
Compliance with these instructions is mandatory.
Possible Action Against Violations
The DHE has indicated that institutions found violating the guidelines may face disciplinary action. This could include administrative measures or penalties, depending on the severity of the violation.
The department has asked colleges to treat this matter with seriousness.
What Students Should Do
Students are advised to check their APAAR ID details carefully and report any errors to their college authorities. Keeping personal and academic information updated can help avoid future issues.
Students should not agree to the creation of any temporary or unofficial academic IDs.
