Mizoram becomes the first state to achieve full functional literacy

Mizoram has become the first state in India to achieve full functional literacy. However, the Union Territory of Ladakh was the first Union Territory/State in India to achieve full functional literacy status on 24 June 2024.

At a function held at the Mizoram University, Aizawl, the Mizoram Chief Minister, Lalduhoma, declared the state fully functionally literate in the presence of the Union Minister of State for Education, Jayant Chaudhary, and other dignitaries. 

The government's ULLAS scheme has played a key role in Mizoram's achievement of the fully functional literate state status.

What is Functional Literacy? 

Functional Literacy is different from Basic Literacy.

Basic literacy refers to a person’s ability to read, write, do simple arithmetic, or possess numeracy skills (3R).

The National Literacy Mission defines a person as functionally literate if 

• He/she  can read, write and do simple arithmetic (3R),
• Aware of the causes of his/her deprivation and has the ability to move towards amelioration of his/her condition by participating in the process of development, 
• Acquire skills to improve economic status and general well-being, and 
• Has imbibed values such as national integration, women's equality, conservation of the environment and observance of small family norms.

A state or Union Territory where 95 % or more of the population is functionally literate is declared fully functionally literate.

Based on this criterion, Ladakh and Mizoram have been declared fully functional literate Union Territories and States, respectively.

About the ULLAS Scheme of the Government 

The Government of India launched the ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram or the New India Literacy Programme in 2022. It is a centrally sponsored scheme to be implemented from 2022-2027.

The programme is being implemented through community involvement and voluntary participation.

Aim of the Scheme 

• It targets adults aged 15 years and above who have missed formal schooling.
• It has five components: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Basic Education, Critical Life Skills, Vocational Skills and Continuing Education.

• The programme is being implemented in both hybrids (both online and offline). 
• The learner can access educational content in 22 regional languages via the DIKSHA Portal and the ULLAS Mobile App/Portal.

Funding of the ULLAS Scheme 

• Total outlay for the scheme - Rs 1037.90 crore.
• Centre shares Rs. 700 crore and the State shares Rs. 337.90 crore.