Pathanamthitta: Two Telegram channels providing cheating aids to SSLC and Higher Secondary students in the state have come under the scrutiny of the Education Department. These channels, followed by nearly 50,000 members, are seeing a massive influx of students. The content of a standard textbook page is reduced to just 10% of its original size—a method popularly known among students as 'micro-printing'.

While this practice existed last year, it was less widespread. Previously, students would print and sell materials received via WhatsApp. However, this year it has evolved into a systematic operation on Telegram, where students request specific subjects and chapters.

The Education Department is reportedly seeking assistance from the Cyber Police to monitor these Telegram channels. Authorities are also examining whether provisions of the IT Act can be invoked against the operators.

Teachers report finding discarded micro-prints around school premises daily after examinations. While some photostat shops refuse to produce such materials, others are reportedly coerced or persuaded to print them. This year, laminated micro-prints have also emerged, suggesting a plan to resell them for the next academic year.

When a page is reduced to 10%, the font becomes incredibly small; however, students are reportedly training themselves to read this tiny text before exams. Last year, a student in Ernakulam district was caught with micro-prints covering 10 different chapters. The trend is currently most prevalent in cities and semi-urban areas, while it remains rare in remote villages.