Unveiling "Mukt Shabd": The Camouflaged Predatory Journal in the UGC CARE List

 In the vast expanse of academia, where scholars strive to contribute to knowledge and understanding, there exists a lurking menace - predatory journals. These journals, masquerading as legitimate platforms for scholarly discourse, often prey on unsuspecting researchers, promising publication in exchange for exorbitant fees while delivering subpar or non-existent peer reviews. Among these wolves in sheep's clothing, one particular entity stands out: "Mukt Shabd."

At first glance, "Mukt Shabd" presents itself as a reputable multidisciplinary journal listed in the UGC CARE list, boasting credibility and authority. However, upon closer inspection, the facade begins to crumble, revealing a publication that exploits minute details and misdirection to ensnare unwary academics.

One of the most deceptive aspects of "Mukt Shabd" is its claim of being a multidisciplinary journal. While it advertises itself as a platform for a wide array of academic fields, the reality is starkly different. In truth, "Mukt Shabd" primarily caters to the Marathi-speaking community, focusing solely on arts and humanities, with a print-only format. This narrow scope contradicts the essence of true multidisciplinarity, indicating a lack of genuine academic rigor.

Furthermore, the journal's inclusion in the UGC CARE list, particularly in the esteemed CARE List-1, adds an aura of legitimacy. However, this inclusion does not guarantee the journal's quality or integrity. The UGC CARE list, while serving as a helpful resource for researchers, is not immune to manipulation. Predatory journals often exploit loopholes or lack of stringent criteria to secure a spot on such lists, leveraging it as a tool for deception.

Unraveling the intricacies of "Mukt Shabd" requires a discerning eye and critical scrutiny of its practices. Upon submission, authors may encounter subtle yet telling signs of predatory behavior. These include rapid acceptance without proper peer review, insistence on article processing charges (APCs) without transparent pricing structures, and vague or non-existent editorial boards.

The repercussions of engaging with predatory journals like "Mukt Shabd" extend beyond individual researchers. The proliferation of such publications undermines the integrity of academic discourse, eroding trust in scholarly communication and hindering genuine advancement of knowledge. Moreover, authors who fall victim to predatory practices risk tarnishing their academic reputation and credibility.

So, how can researchers shield themselves from the allure of predatory journals like "Mukt Shabd"? Vigilance and awareness are paramount. Before submitting to any journal, it is crucial to conduct thorough research, scrutinize the journal's background, editorial policies, and publication practices. Consulting reputable databases, such as the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) or the Think. Check. Submit. Initiative can help verify a journal's legitimacy. Give importance to the minute details ( Please look at the two pictures available).

Additionally, academic institutions and funding agencies play a pivotal role in combating predatory publishing practices. By implementing robust evaluation mechanisms and providing guidance on reputable publishing outlets, these entities can empower researchers to make informed decisions and uphold academic integrity.

In conclusion, "Mukt Shabd" serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the pervasive threat of predatory journals within scholarly publishing. Its deceptive tactics underscore the importance of vigilance and due diligence in navigating the complex landscape of academic communication. By remaining vigilant and collectively advocating for transparency and integrity in publishing, researchers can safeguard the integrity of scholarly discourse and preserve the pursuit of knowledge for generations to come.