Mizoram is India’s First Fully Literate State

PWOnlyIAS

July 05, 2025

Mizoram is India’s First Fully Literate State

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.

Mains Practice

Q. With reference to Mizoram becoming India’s first fully literate state, assess the role of ‘functional literacy’ in enhancing democratic participation and social equity. (10 Marks, 150 Words)

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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