Mizoram has become India’s first fully literate state under the Centre’s ULLAS — New India Literacy Programme.
Achievement of Mizoram
- According to the latest data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey, 98.2 percent of Mizo citizens aged seven and above are now literate — well above the national average of 80.9 per cent, and ahead even of Kerala.
- This high literacy rate signifies a population capable of reading, writing, and making informed decisions.
- Crucially, Mizoram demonstrates almost no urban-rural divide in literacy rates.
- Rural literacy in Mizoram is 98.1 per cent, while urban areas stand at 98.3 per cent.
- This is a stark contrast to the national trend, where the gap between urban and rural literacy often exceeds 15 percentage points.
- Mizoram has excelled in both adult and functional literacy.
- While adult literacy refers to the basic ability to read, write, and perform simple mathematical calculations, functional literacy goes a step further.
- It implies the ability to apply acquired knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios, such as seeking and performing jobs.
- Mizoram’s achievement in functional literacy directly translates into economic and social benefits for its society.
Factors Responsible For Mizoram’s Success
- Inclusive Model: Mizoram’s literacy success did not result from a rigid, technocratic or top-down approach. Instead, it adopted a holistic and inclusive development model.
- Cultural Ethos – Tlawmngaihna:
- The Mizo concept of ‘tlawmngaihna’—a spirit of selflessness, hospitality, and community service—played a key role.
- It encouraged volunteerism and collective responsibility for development.
- Local Volunteers – Talaw Talaw Mang Mangayana:
- Volunteers, locally known as ‘talaw talaw mang mangayana’, bravely ventured into remote locations, overcoming challenges of poor connectivity to deliver literacy to the last mile.
- Public Participation as a Pillar:
- Active community engagement and strong local institutions were critical in executing literacy programs effectively.
- Mizoram illustrates how grassroots participation can enhance policy outcomes.
Beyond Literacy: A Model of Holistic Development
Mizoram’s commitment to human development extends far beyond just literacy, showcasing a holistic approach to progress.
The state ranks impressively on several other critical social indicators:
- Female Workforce Participation: Mizoram boasts the third-highest female workforce participation rate in the country, indicating significant economic empowerment of women.
- Sex Ratio at Birth: With 975 females per 1,000 males, Mizoram’s sex ratio at birth significantly surpasses the national average of 929, reflecting a healthier societal outlook towards girls.
- Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): The state has the lowest infant mortality rate in the Northeast, a crucial indicator of robust healthcare and maternal welfare.
- School Attendance Rates: Mizoram records one of India’s highest school attendance rates at both primary and secondary levels, underscoring the deep-seated awareness and value placed on education within the community.
Lessons for India
- Resources Aren’t Everything: Mizoram shows that development doesn’t depend solely on financial resources. Clear vision and efficient execution can deliver high-impact outcomes.
- Community-Centric Development is Key: Involving local communities ensures better reach and ownership. Empowered citizens actively drive and sustain development efforts.
- Intent and Accountability Matter: Well-defined goals and transparent systems improve governance quality. Accountability ensures programs remain people-focused and result-oriented.
- Invest in People and Trust the Grassroots: Empowering individuals through education and skills builds resilience. Strong local institutions enable last-mile delivery and inclusiveness.
Conclusion
Mizoram offers a replicable model of inclusive growth. Its success underscores the power of purpose-driven, people-first governance.
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