In News:

Mizoram has officially become India’s first fully literate state, attaining a literacy rate of 98.2% according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023–24. This achievement surpasses the 95% threshold defined by the Ministry of Education to classify a region as fully literate.

Definition of Literacy

• As per the Office of the Registrar General of India, a literate person is someone aged 7 years or above who can read and write with understanding in any language.
• Under NEP 2020 and in alignment with SDG 4.6, the definition has expanded to include the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension, and includes digital and financial literacy and critical life skills.

India’s Literacy Landscape (2023–24)

• National Literacy Rate: 80.9% (age 7+)
• Mizoram: 98.2% (Highest; now declared fully literate)
• Ladakh: First UT to achieve full functional literacy under ULLAS
• Lowest Literacy Rates: Andhra Pradesh (72.6%), Bihar (74.3%)

ULLAS – Nav Bharat SaakshartaKaryakram

The achievement is attributed to the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society)programme, a centrally sponsored scheme running from 2022 to 2027, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Features:

• Target Group: Adults aged 15 years and above who missed formal education.
• Implementation: Based on volunteerism and the principle of Kartavya Bodh (sense of duty).
• Components:
  • Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
  • Critical Life Skills (including digital, legal, financial literacy)
  • Basic Education
  • Vocational Skills Development
  • Continuing Education
• Assessment: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) is conducted periodically for certification.
• Digital Tools: Resources provided through the DIKSHA platform and the ULLAS mobile/web portal in regional languages.

What is Functional Literacy?

Functional literacy refers to an individual's ability to apply reading, writing, and numeracy in daily tasks, enabling personal development and community participation.

Other Key Educational Initiatives

• PM SHRI Schools
• Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
• PRAGYATA (Digital Education)
• Mid-Day Meal Scheme
• BetiBachaoBetiPadhao
• National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL)