India, Oct. 26 -- A controversy has erupted over the paper quality of Maharashtra's school textbooks for the 2026-27 academic year. The Maharashtra State Bureau of Textbook Production and Curriculum Research (Balbharati) reportedly lowered paper standards in its latest tender, raising concerns from child welfare groups about potential harm to students' eyesight and reading comfort.

The Sankalp Jeevan Charitable Trust has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Bombay High Court, claiming that the textbooks will be printed on thinner, less opaque, and weaker paper.

The petition cites reduced Brightness Index (from 85% to 78%), 30% lower tensile strength, and a 7% decrease in opacity, which may cause eye strain, headaches, and red...