A new rumor is going viral on Telegram about UGC NET and CSIR NET certificates getting blocked. Students are panicking. But what does UGC and NTA actually say? Let’s check the real facts.
What Is This UGC NET DigiLocker Rumor About?
Telegram groups are claiming that UGC has made Aadhaar e-KYC compulsory. They say old NET certificates could get blocked without it.
This claim has spread fast among NET and CSIR NET qualified students. Many are worried about their JRF status and job applications.
What UGC and NTA Have Actually Said
There is no official notice from UGC confirming that old certificates will be blocked. This claim is not verified by any government source yet.
In fact, NTA recently clarified something different for UGC NET June 2026 registration. Aadhaar is not compulsory for new applicants.
Candidates can use PAN Card or Driving Licence through DigiLocker instead. This option was added after students raised concerns about Aadhaar issues.
The Real Story Behind DigiLocker and NAD
UGC has linked with DigiLocker and the National Academic Depository (NAD) for years now. This started officially back in 2022.
Under this system, degrees and mark sheets stored on DigiLocker are treated as valid documents. This follows rules under the IT Act, 2000.
The goal was simple. It lets institutions and employers verify your certificate online instead of asking for physical copies.
This system was built to help students, not block them. No rule says old certificates lose their validity.
Why Are Students Confused Then?
Confusion often starts when a genuine government process gets mixed with rumors on social media. Screenshots without source links spread fast.
Aadhaar-related questions have come up before in courts too. This history makes students more likely to believe fresh rumors.
What Should NET and CSIR NET Qualified Candidates Do Now?
Do not panic based on Telegram or WhatsApp forwards alone. Always check the official UGC or NTA website first.
Your NET or CSIR NET certificate remains valid as issued. No verified circular has changed this rule so far.
If you get any Aadhaar or DigiLocker request, check it only through official portals. Never share OTP or Aadhaar details on random links.
Keep your DigiLocker account active if you already use it. It makes future document verification faster and easier.
How To Stay Updated Safely
Bookmark the official NTA UGC NET website and check it weekly during exam season. Avoid relying only on Telegram forwards.
Cross-check any big claim on at least two trusted news sources before believing or sharing it further.
| Important Links | Official Website |
|---|---|
| UGC NET Official Website (NTA) | https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in |
| CSIR NET Official Website (NTA) | https://csirnet.nta.nic.in |
| National Academic Depository (NAD) | https://nad.gov.in |
| DigiLocker Official Portal | https://www.digilocker.gov.in |
| UGC Official Website | https://www.ugc.gov.in |

Meet Deepkant Shrivastava, he has been writing content since 2020. Over the years he has worked across more than ten websites — mostly covering job updates, career guidance, and government schemes — which gave him a solid grip on how to break down complicated topics for everyday readers.
At NextExamNews, he writes guides, exam updates, and result-related articles covering major about various exams. He tries to keep every article easy to read and straight to the point.
On the personal side, he is currently in performance marketing domain and learning AI and finding ways to bring both into his content creation.