Recently, Mizoram became India’s first fully literate state.

• To achieve full literacy in Mizoram, the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme) was implemented.
• Ladakh was the first administrative unit to declare full literacy on 24th June 2024.

About Functional Literacy

• Functional literacy means having basic skills in reading, writing, and math to handle everyday tasks. 
• Importance: It helps people read signs, fill forms, manage money, understand health-related information, and participate in society.

About ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram 

• ULLAS, also known as the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), is a centrally sponsored scheme.
• Aligned with NEP (2020): It is aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• Volunteer Driven: This scheme is volunteer-driven and promotes the spirit of Jan Jan Saakshar (Literacy for All) and is based on the spirit of Kartavya Bodh. 
• Target Group: The scheme focuses on educating adults aged 15 years and above who missed out on formal schooling.
• Main Goal: To promote functional literacy, including basic reading, writing, and numeracy.
  • It also seeks to develop critical life skills and a culture of lifelong learning.
• Budget Outay: The financial outlay of “ULLAS is Rs.1037.90 crore.
  • It includes Central share of Rs.700 crore and State share of Rs.337.90 crore respectively.
• Five key components:
  • Foundational Literacy and Numeracy – Ensuring basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.
  • Critical Life Skills – Providing knowledge on financial literacy, digital skills, health awareness, etc.
  • Basic Education – Equivalency programs covering primary, middle, and secondary levels.
  • Vocational Skills – Training in livelihood-related skills to promote self-sufficiency.
  • Continuing Education – Advanced learning opportunities for personal growth.
• OTLAS: Learning is supported through the Online Teaching, Learning and Assessment System (OTLAS).
• Digital Support and Technology Use
  • OTLAS is a digital platform developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
  • Educational content is made available in regional languages via:
    • DIKSHA Portal
    • ULLAS Mobile App and Web Portal