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Himachal Pradesh Declared fully literate: Meaning and Significance
Primer
1. Definition of literacy
The Ministry of education defines literacy as the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic. A state is declared “fully literate” when at least 95% of its population achieves literacy.
2. How Individuals Achieve Literacy
Under the ULLAS programme (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society, launched in 2022), adults receive training in:
• Reading and writing
• Numeracy and financial literacy
• Basic digital and life skills
Certification is granted through the Functional Literacy Assessment Test (FLNAT).
3. Himachal Pradesh’s Achievement
Himachal Pradesh has officially been declared fully literate, joining Goa, Ladakh, Mizoram, and Tripura in crossing the 95% literacy threshold.
This does not imply 100% literacy. For example, Himachal’s literacy rate was 82.8% in the 2011 Census, but the state has shown remarkable improvement since then.
4. How Literacy is Measured
Literacy is measured by national surveys such as the NSS (National Sample Survey), PLFS (Periodic Labour Force Survey), and the Census.
Adult literacy (15 years and above) is defined as the ability to read and write with understanding in any language.
5. Adult Literacy Schemes in India
• 1960s–70s: Early literacy campaigns for men and women.
• 1978: Launch of the National Adult Education Programme.
• 1988–2009: Implementation of the National Literacy Mission and Saakshar Bharat.
• 2022: Introduction of ULLAS, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
6. Why This Matters
Higher literacy in Himachal Pradesh means:
• Greater employment opportunities
• Increased digital participation
• Stronger social empowerment
• Enhanced human capital, supporting India’s progress toward sustainable development