On May 20, 2025, Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma declared Mizoram as India’s first fully literate state during a special function at the Auditorium of Mizoram University in Aizawl. This landmark achievement marks a significant step in the state’s educational journey, showcasing the power of community-driven efforts and government initiatives. This article explores Mizoram’s path to full literacy and its implications for India’s educational landscape.
Journey to Full Literacy
Building on a Strong Foundation
Mizoram, which became a state on February 20, 1987, spans 21,081 km² and had a literacy rate of 91.33% as per the 2011 Census, ranking third in India. The ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme), launched in 2022, played a pivotal role in identifying and educating the remaining 3,026 non-literates through a door-to-door survey conducted in August–September 2023. By engaging 1,692 learners, Mizoram achieved a literacy rate of 98.20% as per the PFLS survey 2023-24, surpassing the 95% threshold for full literacy.
Role of Community Volunteers
Kartavya Bodh in Action
The success of this initiative was driven by 292 volunteer teachers, including students, educators, and Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs). Guided by the Mizo cultural value of Kartavya Bodh (sense of duty), these volunteers played a crucial role in educating non-literates, demonstrating a remarkable display of community spirit. Their efforts highlight the power of collective action in achieving inclusive education.
ULLAS – New India Literacy Programme
Empowering Adults Nationwide
The ULLAS scheme, a centrally sponsored program from 2022–2027, targets adults aged 15 and above who missed formal schooling. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it focuses on five components: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills, and Continuing Education. Nationwide, over 1.77 crore learners have participated in the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), with 2.37 crore learners and 40.84 lakh volunteer teachers registered on the ULLAS Mobile app.
Significance of the Achievement
A Model for India
Mizoram’s declaration as a fully literate state sets a precedent for other states, following Ladakh’s similar achievement on June 24, 2024. The collaborative efforts of the state government, volunteers, and the ULLAS scheme demonstrate the potential of inclusive education to empower every citizen. The event, attended by dignitaries like Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Dr. Vanlalthlana, underscores Mizoram’s commitment to building an Atmanirbhar Bharat through literacy.
Celebratory Event
A Testament to Collective Efforts
The announcement ceremony on May 20, 2025, at Mizoram University was a vibrant celebration of this milestone. It highlighted the collaborative spirit of the government, educators, and volunteers in advancing literacy. Mizoram’s achievement serves as an inspiration for other regions to prioritize education as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Mizoram declared fully literate on May 20, 2025, in Aizawl |
| Key Figure | Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma |
| Literacy Rate | 98.20% as per PFLS survey 2023-24 |
| ULLAS Scheme | Educated 1,692 non-literates, supported by 292 volunteers |
| Volunteers | 292 teachers, driven by Kartavya Bodh |
| Impact | First Indian state to achieve full literacy, model for inclusive education |