Full Functional Literacy State under ULLAS Scheme

Context: Mizoram becomes the first state in India to attain Full Functional Literacy (literacy rate: 98.20% as per PLFS Survey 2023-24). In 2024, Ladakh became the first UT to declare full functional literacy under Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS).

ULLAS Scheme – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme)

The ULLAS (Understanding Literacy for All in Society) Scheme, or Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme – NILP), is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme initiated by the government of India. It seeks to empower those adults who are 15 years and above and have lost the opportunity for formal education, making them capable of acquiring vital skills for individual and national growth.

Mizoram First Fully Literate State in India

Objective

To make adults (15 years and above) literate in a holistic sense—not just the ability to sign or write their name, but to:

• Read and write with understanding
• Perform basic arithmetic
• Gain digital and financial literacy

Components

• Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)
• Critical Life Skills – Health, hygiene, nutrition, environment, gender equality, etc.
• Basic Education – Equivalent to Class 3, 5, or 8 level.
• Vocational Skills – To improve livelihood opportunities.
• Continuing Education – Including libraries, reading rooms, and other lifelong learning options.

Implementation Mechanism

Promoted through volunteerism, encouraging social responsibility and a sense of ‘Kartavya Bodh’ (sense of duty).

• Samajik Chetna Kendras were established using available infrastructure such as:
  • Schools
  • Community halls
  • Cultural centres
  • Other public spaces
• Schools serve as the implementation units for the programme.

Technology Integration

Educational content made available in regional languages through:

• DIKSHA Portal
• ULLAS Mobile App / Portal

What is Full Functional Literacy?

• Full Functional Literacy refers to the achievement of reading, writing and numeracy skills of a predetermined level.
• A state is considered fully literate when its literacy rate exceeds 95%, as per the benchmark defined under the ULLAS scheme.

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