Answer

Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), vital for cognitive development, builds essential reading, writing, and arithmetic skills. NIPUN Bharat initiative focuses on creating an engaging learning environment, integrating play and activity-based pedagogies, and involving all stakeholders—teachers, parents, students, and policymakers to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

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Findings of ASER 2024 report on Progress in Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) Levels Post-COVID-19

• Recovery of Learning Losses: The report highlights that learning losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have been largely recovered, with many children performing better than pre-pandemic levels.
  For example: The percentage of Class 3 students achieving grade-level reading proficiency increased from 16 % in 2022 to 24% in 2024.
• Highest-Ever FLN Levels: Some regions reported the highest-ever levels of FLN, showcasing the success of targeted educational interventions in improving foundational skills.
• Increased Enrollments in Primary Education: A significant rise in enrollments in primary schools has contributed to better FLN levels as more children access consistent early education.
  For example: As per ASER 2024, among 4-year-olds, the all-India figure for enrollment in pre-primary institutions increased from 76% in 2018 to 83.3% in 2024 (exceeding 95% in States like Gujarat and Maharashtra). 
• Improved Teacher-Student Engagement: Enhanced teacher training and technology integration have improved classroom engagement, contributing to higher FLN levels.
• Focus on Foundational Classes: Initiatives under NIPUN Bharat have emphasized targeted interventions in foundational grades (Classes 1-3), leading to improved FLN outcomes.

Significant Gaps That Persist

• Low FLN Achievements in Marginalized Regions: Many backward regions still struggle to meet FLN targets, with stark inter-state disparities in outcomes.
• Inadequate Early Childhood Education: Pre-primary education (two years before Class 1) remains underdeveloped, with anganwadi workers lacking training and resources to meet FLN goals.
• Underpaid and Overburdened Anganwadi Workers: Workers responsible for early education face challenges due to low wages and excessive workloads, impacting the delivery of FLN content.
• Insufficient Parental Awareness: Many parents remain unaware of the importance of early foundational skills, limiting the effectiveness of home-based learning support.
• Limited Access to Technology in Rural Areas: The digital divide restricts access to online learning resources and teacher training programs, further widening educational disparities.

Role of Government Initiatives Such as NIPUN Bharat in Achieving Universal FLN by 2026-27

• Targeted Goals and Timelines: NIPUN Bharat sets a clear roadmap with a 2026-27 deadline for achieving foundational literacy and numeracy, driving focused efforts at national and state levels.
  For example: The mission targets 100% literacy for children in Classes 1-3 through measurable outcomes like grade-level reading and numeracy proficiency.
• Capacity Building for Teachers: It emphasizes teacher training to improve pedagogy for foundational learning, equipping teachers with modern techniques and tools.
  For example: For teachers, who are the backbone of this mission, the states receive up to Rs 5,000 per teacher for capacity-building workshops, along with Rs 150 for resource materials to support the classroom strategies of teachers.
• Community Participation and Awareness: The initiative promotes community involvement to enhance parental engagement in children’s education and raise awareness about FLN importance.
  For example: The “Parents as Partners” campaign encouraged parents to monitor their children’s FLN progress at home.
• Focus on Early Assessment: Regular baseline and endline assessments under NIPUN Bharat help track FLN progress and identify gaps in implementation.
  For example: The Balvatika FLN assessment tools introduced, measure children’s readiness for Class 1 foundational learning.
• Integration of EdTech and Resources: NIPUN Bharat integrates technology-based learning tools to enhance FLN delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
  For example: The DIKSHA platform’s FLN content reached millions of students in 2024, supplementing classroom education and supporting interactive learning.

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Measures to Strengthen Early Childhood Education in India

• Improved Training for Anganwadi Workers: Strengthening anganwadi workers’ capacity through structured training programs can improve FLN delivery at pre-primary levels.
  For example: Regular training under the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) can enhance teaching skills in foundational literacy and numeracy.
• Enhanced Infrastructure for Pre-Primary Education: Building dedicated pre-primary schools or adding infrastructure to anganwadi centers can improve access to quality early education.
• Adequate Compensation for Anganwadi Staff: Increasing salaries and reducing workloads for anganwadi workers can motivate them to focus more on FLN outcomes.
  For example: Bihar introduced performance-linked incentives for workers achieving FLN targets in their respective regions.
• Early Childhood Curriculum Development: Developing a uniform, activity-based curriculum tailored for children aged 3-6 can strengthen foundational learning.
• Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with NGOs and private organizations to provide teaching aids, training, and resources can bolster early childhood education.
  For example: Pratham Education Foundation partnered with state governments to conduct FLN workshops, benefiting over 2 lakh children in 2024.

To bridge the FLN gap, the government must scale up NIPUN Bharat and integrate technology-driven learning tools in remote areas. Strengthening teacher training, boosting community involvement, and expanding early childhood education initiatives will create a future where every child thrives. We must invest in foundations for a stronger tomorrow of Viksit Bharat.

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