Mizoram Declared India’s First Fully Literate State
Context
Mizoram has officially been declared fully literate, setting a new benchmark in India’s educational journey. With a literacy rate of 98.2% (PLFS 2023–24), the state has surpassed the national benchmark and become a model for others to follow.
What is ‘Full Literacy’?
Under the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative, a region is considered fully literate when more than 95% of its population is literate.
- Mizoram’s 2023–24 Literacy Rate: 98.2%
- 2011 Census Literacy Rate: 91.33%
- Key Program Implemented: Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram under the ULLAS framework
About the ULLAS Scheme
Full Form: Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society
Type: Centrally Sponsored Scheme
Launched: Financial Year 2022–23
Duration: FY 2022–2027 (5 years)
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education, Department of School Education & Literacy
Primary Focus: Adult education and lifelong learning, especially for individuals aged 15 and above who missed out on formal schooling
Funding Pattern:
- General States: 60:40 (Centre:State)
- North-Eastern States & Himalayan UTs: 90:10
- Union Territories (without legislature): 100% central funding
Aims and Objectives
- Provide inclusive adult education in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
- Reach non-literate individuals aged 15 and above
- Improve functional literacy, digital proficiency, and vocational competence
Core Areas of the ULLAS Scheme
- Foundational Literacy & Numeracy (FLN)
Basic skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic for adult learners - Critical Life Skills
Includes awareness in areas like health, hygiene, disaster response, and financial literacy - Basic Education
Equivalent to formal primary to secondary school education - Vocational Training
Imparts job-relevant skills to enhance employability - Continuing Education
Promotes lifelong learning through educational, cultural, and recreational programs
How It Was Implemented
- Community-Led Approach: Trained volunteers served as grassroots educators
- Digital Learning Tools: Content delivered through mobile apps, online platforms, TV, and radio
- Massive Outreach:
- Over 2.37 crore adult learners enrolled
- Supported by 40.84 lakh volunteer instructors (as of 2025)
- Evaluation System: Learners assessed via the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT)
Why Mizoram’s Feat Matters
Mizoram’s accomplishment is not just a regional victory—it reflects the transformative power of community engagement, inclusive education policies, and digital outreach. It offers a replicable blueprint for achieving universal literacy across India.
Related Posts
UPSC Current Affairs Quiz, 06 May 2023
Posted on
