Himachal Pradesh Declared Fully Literate: Understanding the ULLAS Milestone

Why in the News?

1. Himachal Pradesh has recently been declared a “fully literate” state under the Union Government’s ULLAS program.
2. It joins Goa, Ladakh, Mizoram, and Tripura in receiving this recognition, despite none of these states having 100% literacy.
3. The announcement highlights the progress of adult literacy initiatives in India and aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and NEP 2020

Key Highlights

1. Definition of Literacy and Full Literacy
   1. Literacy is the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension, including understanding, interpreting, and applying knowledge.
   2. Full literacy is defined by the Ministry of Education as achieving at least 95% literacy in a State/UT.
   3. Literacy also includes critical life skills such as digital literacy, financial literacy, and basic numeracy.
2. ULLAS Program and Adult Education
   1. Launched in 2022, ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) targets people aged 15 and above who may not have attended school.
   2. It aims for 100% literacy in India by 2030, in line with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and the NEP 2020.
   3. Adult learners are taught reading, writing, arithmetic (up to class 3 level), time management, currency handling, and digital transactions.
3. Functional Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT)
   1. Learners are tested on a 150-mark reading, writing, and numeracy assessment in their preferred language.
   2. Successful candidates receive certification from the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) confirming foundational literacy and numeracy.
4. History of Adult Literacy Initiatives in India
   1. 1960s–70s: Focused on literacy among farmers and women.
   2. 1978: National Adult Education Programme targeted 15–35-year-olds.
   3. 1988–2009: National Literacy Mission continued adult literacy drives.
   4. 2009–2018: Saakshar Bharat initiative promoted functional literacy for adults above 15 years.
5. Measurement of Literacy in India
   1. Census 2011: Any person aged 7+ who can read and write with understanding in any language is considered literate.
   2. Periodic surveys (NSS, PLFS) supplement census data to track adult literacy rates.
   3. Recent PLFS 2023–24: Himachal Pradesh adult literacy at 8%; Tripura 93.7%; Mizoram 98.2%; Goa 93.6%.

Key Terms

1. ULLAS Program (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society)
   2022. A centrally sponsored scheme of the Ministry of Education launched in 2022.
   2023. Covers adult learners aged 15 years and above who missed formal schooling.
   2024. Uses door-to-door surveys and digital platforms to identify non-literate persons.
   2025. Promotes community-driven learning, where volunteers, students, and teachers train adults.
   2026. Encourages blended learning methods (mobile apps + offline classes).
   2027. Acts as a continuum for skill development, enabling adults to transition into vocational education.
2. FLNAT (Functional Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test)
   1. Designed as a national-level standardized test to measure adult learning outcomes.
   2. Structured to test context-based problem-solving (not just rote reading/writing).
   3. Conducted in multiple Indian languages to ensure inclusivity.
   4. Learners must achieve a minimum benchmark score to be declared functionally literate.
   5. Helps states measure progress against the 95% literacy threshold for “fully literate” status.
   6. Ensures transparency and credibility in adult literacy certification.
3. National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
   1989. Established as an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Education in 1989.
   1990. Functions as the largest open schooling system in the world, offering flexible learning.
   1991. Develops curricula and learning materials for both children and adults.
   1992. Acts as a certifying authority for learners under ULLAS and FLNAT.
   1993. Provides pathways for learners to progress into secondary and senior secondary education.
   1994. Collaborates internationally with UNESCO and Commonwealth of Learning to share best practices.
4. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
   1. First comprehensive education policy of India in over three decades.
   2. Recognizes adult education as essential for achieving an “inclusive knowledge society.”
   3. Proposes use of ICT tools, TV, radio, and digital platforms for adult literacy.
   4. Recommends creation of Adult Education Centres (AECs) in every district.
   5. Introduces the concept of “critical life skills” (healthcare, legal awareness, ICT).
   6. Links adult literacy programs with vocational training and employability goals.
5. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4: Quality Education)
   1. A UN-adopted global target under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
   2. Goes beyond literacy to cover equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
   3. Emphasizes reducing gender gaps and reaching marginalized populations.
   4. Encourages integration of education with technology and digital platforms.
   5. Progress is tracked through global indicators like completion rates, literacy levels, and teacher availability.
   6. Seen as a foundation for achieving other SDGs (poverty reduction, gender equality, decent work).

Implications for India

1. Educational Development
   1. Sets a benchmark for adult literacy and functional skills across India.
   2. Encourages other states with lower literacy rates to strengthen adult education programs.
   3. Supports skill-building initiatives aligned with NEP 2020
2. Economic Benefits
   1. Literate adults are better equipped for employment, entrepreneurship, and financial management.
   2. Digital literacy enables greater participation in e-governance and online services.
   3. Reduces dependency and increases productivity in rural and semi-urban areas.
3. Social Empowerment
   1. Enhances gender equality by targeting adult women in literacy programs.
   2. Increases civic awareness and participation in democratic processes.
   3. Promotes inclusion by providing access to education for marginalized groups.
4. Alignment with SDGs
   2030. Contributes to achieving SDG 4: Quality Education by 2030.
   2031. Supports lifelong learning and sustainable development in communities.
   2032. Positions India as a global example for large-scale adult literacy initiatives.
5. Policy and Governance
   1. Encourages systematic data collection and evidence-based policy-making.
   2. Strengthens the role of community volunteers and educational institutions in governance.
   3. Supports targeted interventions in states with higher illiteracy rates like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.

Challenges and Way Forward

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh’s declaration as a fully literate state marks a significant milestone in India’s adult education journey. While it does not mean 100% literacy, it demonstrates the success of structured programs like ULLAS and FLNAT. Achieving functional literacy empowers citizens socially, economically, and digitally, supporting India’s broader development and SDG goals. Replicating this model in other states can help close the literacy gap nationwide.