Predatory Journals – Dark Side of Academic Publishing - Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences

The ACU–Learning Resource Centre organised a Guest Lecture on *“Predatory Journals: Dark Side of Academic Publishing”* on 21st November 2025 at the BGS Global Broadcasting Centre, AIMS. The event was held under the guidance of *Dr. M. G. Shivaramu, Principal, AIMS & Dean (Medical), ACU. The session was chaired by Dr. Aliya Nusrath, Professor of Biochemistry & Vice Principal, AIMS. Esteemed dignitaries Dr. Vasanthakumar M, Chief Librarian, ACU, and Dr. B. T. Sampathkumar, Professor of Library & Information Science, Tumkur University,* were present.

*Objective of the Event*

The lecture aimed to educate faculty, researchers, and students on:

• Identifying red flags of predatory journals, including spam invitations, false indexing, fake metrics, and hijacked journal websites.

• Understanding the consequences of publishing in predatory journals—loss of academic credibility, financial loss (APCs), and negative career impact.

• Learning strategies to select reputable journals that support research impact and institutional quality.

• Promoting awareness among academic peers to safeguard research integrity.

The session began with the keynote address by *Dr. Aliya Nusrath,* followed by an insightful and interactive lecture delivered by *Dr. B. T. Sampathkumar.* He highlighted the growing threat of predatory publishing, tools to identify suspicious journals, and best practices for ethical scholarly communication. The programme was organised in collaboration with AIMS-IQAC and witnessed the participation of over 60 attendees.

*Outcomes of the Event*

• Participants gained clarity on the nature, warning signs, and harmful effects of predatory journals on research quality.

• The speaker strongly advised against submitting articles to suspicious journals despite “publish-or-perish” pressures.

• Tools such as Retraction Watch and predatoryjournals.com were recognised as useful resources.

• Participants expressed the need for professional guidance from senior faculty and librarians when selecting journals.

• Feedback reflected that the session was highly relevant, informative, and practically beneficial.

*Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)*

SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-being

SDG 4 – Quality Education

SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals