Recent developments have seen Himachal Pradesh declared a ‘fully literate’ state under a new government literacy framework. It joins Goa, Ladakh, Mizoram, and Tripura as states or Union Territories recognised for achieving literacy rates above 95%. This milestone reflects India’s intensified efforts to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of 100% literacy by 2030. The government’s ULLAS programme plays a key role in this mission by focusing on adult education and foundational skills.
Definition of Literacy and Full Literacy
The Ministry of Education defines literacy as the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension. It includes critical life skills such as digital and financial literacy. ‘Full literacy’ is officially recognised when a state or Union Territory achieves at least 95% literacy. This standard sets a clear benchmark for measuring progress beyond basic reading and writing.
ULLAS Programme and Adult Education
ULLAS (About Lifelong Learning for All in Society) was launched in 2022 to provide literacy training to individuals aged 15 and above. It teaches basic reading, writing, arithmetic, and practical skills like using currency, reading calendars, and digital transactions. Training is delivered via mobile apps or community volunteers. Learners must pass the Functional Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) to receive certification from the National Institute of Open Schooling.
Historical Context of Adult Literacy Initiatives
India’s adult literacy efforts date back to the 1950s. Key programmes include the National Adult Education Programme (1978), National Literacy Mission (1988-2009), and Saakshar Bharat (2009-2018). These schemes targeted literacy among adults, especially women and farmers, focusing on functional literacy and numeracy. ULLAS builds on these foundations with a modern, technology-enabled approach.
Process for Achieving Full Literacy Status
States conduct door-to-door surveys or use existing data to identify illiterate adults. These individuals undergo ULLAS training and take the FLNAT. A state is declared fully literate when at least 95% of its population passes this test. States with higher initial literacy and smaller populations achieve this status more quickly.
Measuring Literacy in India
The 2011 Census defined literacy as the ability to read and write with understanding for persons aged seven and above. It showed a national literacy rate of 74%, with adult literacy at 69.3%. Subsequent surveys like the National Sample Survey (2014) and Periodic Labour Force Survey (2023-24) show rising literacy trends. The latest data indicates national literacy at 77.5%, with states like Mizoram and Goa nearing or exceeding 98%.
Challenges and Variations Across States
Despite progress, literacy rates vary widely. States like Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh have adult illiteracy rates above 28%. Factors include population size, socio-economic conditions, and access to education. Continuous efforts are needed to bridge these gaps and achieve nationwide full literacy.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of adult education programmes in India’s literacy drive and their impact on socio-economic development.
- Explain the significance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of achieving 100% literacy by 2030 and its implications for Indian policy making.
- What are the challenges in measuring literacy accurately in a diverse country like India? How does this affect policy formulation and implementation?
- With suitable examples, comment on the role of digital literacy in enhancing functional literacy and financial inclusion in rural India.
