Source: CNBC
Context: The Chief Minister of Mizoram officially declared the state as fully literate. With this, Mizoram has become the first state in India to achieve complete literacy.
- Earlier, on 24.06.2024, Ladakh became the first administrative unit to declare full literacy.
About Mizoram India’s First Fully Literate State:
- What is ‘Full Literacy’?
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- A state is considered fully literate when its literacy rate exceeds 95%, as per the benchmark defined under the ULLAS scheme.
- Mizoram achieved a literacy rate of 98.2% as per the PLFS 2023–24, surpassing the threshold.
- Mizoram (literacy rate in 2011 Census: 91.33%)
- Initiative Used: Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram under ULLAS
About ULLAS Scheme (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society):
- Launched: FY 2022–2027
- Type: Centrally Sponsored Scheme
- Ministry: Ministry of Education
- Budget Outlay: ₹1037.90 crore (₹700 Cr Centre + ₹337.90 Cr State share)
- Objectives:
- Promote inclusive adult education aligning with NEP 2020
- Target non-literates aged 15+ across India
- Enhance functional literacy, digital skills, and vocational learning
- Key Components:
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- Foundational Literacy & Numeracy (FLN): Teaches basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills to non-literate adults.
- Critical Life Skills: Covers essential knowledge like health awareness, financial literacy, and family welfare.
- Basic Education: Offers education equivalent to primary, middle, and secondary schooling.
- Vocational Skills: Imparts job-oriented skills to boost employability at the local level.
- Continuing Education: Provides lifelong learning through cultural, scientific, and recreational courses.
- Implementation Features:
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- Volunteer-Based Teaching: Uses trained community volunteers as educators for adult learners.
- Digital-First Delivery: Learning materials are delivered via mobile apps, TV, radio, and online platforms.
- Enrolment Stats: Over 2.37 crore learners and 40.84 lakh volunteer teachers have registered as of 2025.
- Assessment Method: Learners are evaluated through the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT).
