Aizawl, May 20: Mizoram has been declared the first fully literate state in India under the Ministry of Education’s ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative. Chief Minister Lalduhoma made the announcement on Tuesday during a formal ceremony at the Mizoram University Auditorium.
Union Minister of State for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, and Mizoram Education Minister Vanlalthlana attended the event as Guests of Honour.
According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023–24, Mizoram achieved a literacy rate of 98.2%, exceeding the 95% threshold required for full literacy status under the ULLAS programme.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma credited the achievement to the collective efforts of citizens, educators, and government bodies. He especially acknowledged the 1,692 adult learners who joined literacy programmes after missing earlier educational opportunities. “This is not the end of a campaign, but the beginning of a new era of opportunity,” he said, calling for further efforts in digital, financial, and vocational literacy.
Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary congratulated the people of Mizoram and praised the state’s commitment to inclusive education. He noted that the achievement reflects the success of collaborative efforts and sets an example for other states.
Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, who chaired the event, delivered the welcome address and provided an overview of the state’s literacy initiatives.
The literacy campaign was led by the School Education Department through Samagra Shiksha and the New India Literacy Programme (Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram). A Governing Council and Executive Committee under the State Literacy Mission Authority oversaw the efforts, with the State Project Office coordinating implementation.
The State Centre for Literacy (SCL) under SCERT developed Mizo language learning materials titled Vartian, along with an English version for Lawngtlai district. Additional resources such as Romei for learners and Margdarshikha for Volunteer Teachers were also prepared.
Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) identified 3,026 individuals aged 15 and above who were illiterate. Of these, 1,692 opted to participate in the literacy programme. A total of 292 Volunteer Teachers were recruited to conduct classes in schools, community halls, YMA libraries, and learners’ homes.
With this recognition, Mizoram stands as a model of educational progress and inclusion, becoming the first Indian state to be declared fully literate under the ULLAS initiative.
