Uttarakhand Becomes India’s 6th Fully Literate State

Why in News?

Uttarakhand has been declared India’s sixth fully literate state in 2026.

• This achievement is attributed to the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Programme and the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

ULLAS: Nav Bharat Saaksharta Programme Overview

• ULLAS – Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society
• Key Features
• This is a centrally supported initiative focused on adult education and literacy.
• Aligned with – National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• It emphasises the promotion of lifelong learning.
• The target beneficiaries are non-literate individuals and adult learners.
• The programme utilizes community participation and volunteer engagement.
• It includes mechanisms for assessment and certification of learners.

The Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT)

• It evaluates foundational literacy and numeracy competencies.
• Conducted through – National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
• It used to assess learners' foundational:
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Numeracy
• Literacy Certification – According to the ULLAS framework, a State or Union Territory is considered to have achieved full literacy when the literacy rate reaches 95%.

NEP 2020 Linkage

• The Uttarakhand initiative aligns with the key objectives outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, specifically:
  • Achieving universal foundational literacy and numeracy
  • Promoting adult education
  • Fostering lifelong learning
  • Enhancing digital literacy
  • Expanding vocational education
  • Improving access to quality education
  • Integrating technology in educational processes

Uttarakhand – Other Education Initiatives

• Nanda Gaura Scheme – It provides financial assistance to eligible girl students.
• Chief Minister Balashray Yojana – It provides free education to orphaned children.
• Virtual classroom and central studio – These facilities are being developed to connect 500 schools, with a particular focus on serving remote areas.
• Atal Utkrisht Schools – According to the supplied report, Uttarakhand has established 189 Atal Utkrisht schools.
• School Infrastructure – Modern laboratories are being developed in the following institutions:
  • 100 high schools
  • 100 intermediate schools

Reference

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