On May 20, 2025, Mizoram was officially declared India's first fully literate state, achieving a literacy rate of 98.2% under the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative.
This milestone was announced by Chief Minister Lalduhoma at Mizoram University in Aizawl, in the presence of Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary.
Key Points:
- Literacy Rate Achievement: Mizoram's literacy rate reached 98.2%, surpassing the Ministry of Education's benchmark of 95% for full literacy.
- Implementation of ULLAS: The state's success was realized through the ULLAS initiative, also known as the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), which focused on lifelong learning and universal literacy.
- Community Participation: A door-to-door survey identified 3,026 non-literate individuals, of whom 1,692 enrolled as learners. The program was supported by 292 volunteer teachers, including students, educators, and resource persons, reflecting the Mizo cultural value of Tlawmngaihna—altruism and selflessness.
- Historical Context: Mizoram had a literacy rate of 91.33% according to the 2011 Census. Building on this foundation, the state implemented targeted educational programs to achieve full literacy.
- Future Goals: Following this achievement, Mizoram aims to expand its educational initiatives to include digital, financial, and entrepreneurial literacy, ensuring holistic development and empowerment for all citizens.