Autonomous and accreditation definitions in Education

Autonomous:  This word signifies that educational institute is not affiliated to any university, group of university. All the courses conducted by such institute are under the individual control of the institute.Certificate received at the end of the course is valued for reputed institutes. Students should always check for popularity and brand value of autonomous institutes prior to applying to autonomous institute.

AICTE (http://www.aicte-india.org/index.html)

Advisory and statutory body, established for proper planning and co-ordinated development of technical education system throughout the country of India.

The AICTE was constituted in 1945 as an advisory body in all matters relating to technical education. Institutes gets AICTE approval if they are following standards and norms set by AICTE in terms of infrastructure, facility, student intake, curriculum, faculty etc. AICTE approved institutes are certified in terms of overall infrastructure required for the education.

UGC: University Grant Commission (http://www.ugc.ac.in)

The UGC has the unique distinction of being the only grant-giving agency in the country which has been vested with two responsibilities: that of providing funds and that of coordination, determination and maintenance of standards in institutions of higher education.

UGC generally associated with university initiatives, co ordination between state and central government related to higher education.

Deemed University:

Deemed university is a status of autonomy granted to high performing institutes and departments of various universities in India. Such universities can set their own norms, courses, and syllabus. Such universities also issues degree certificates to the successful graduate students.
NAAC:  The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (naacindia.org)

It is autonomous institution providing grade to educational institute based on various parameters like education, innovative practices, learning methodology, usage of technology, administration etc. Institutes having NAAC Accreditation of A++, A+  considered to be following most of the norms set by NAAC .