- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:38 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Uttarakhand achieves over 98% literacy, sixth in India.
- NEP 2020 and ULLAS program key to success.
- CM Dhami hails achievement, commits to lifelong learning.
Uttarakhand 6th Fully Literate State: Uttarakhand has officially become the sixth fully literate state in India after achieving a literacy rate of over 98 per cent under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) programme. The achievement marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to improve education and adult literacy.
The proposal declaring Uttarakhand a fully literate state was approved by Governor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Gurmeet Singh after the state successfully met the adult literacy benchmarks prescribed by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Union Ministry of Education. Officials described the development as a major step towards strengthening inclusive education and lifelong learning.
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How Uttarakhand Achieved Full Literacy Status?
The recognition comes after Uttarakhand fulfilled the literacy standards laid down by the Ministry of Education under the ULLAS programme. The initiative focuses on improving adult literacy and ensuring that every eligible citizen has access to basic education and learning opportunities.
With this achievement, Uttarakhand has joined a select group of states that have successfully implemented large-scale literacy programmes. The state's sustained efforts under NEP 2020, community participation and government-led awareness campaigns played an important role in reaching the required literacy benchmark.
India's Sixth Fully Literate State
Before Uttarakhand, five states had already achieved full literacy status. These include Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim. Uttarakhand now becomes the sixth state in the country to receive this recognition after crossing the 98 per cent literacy threshold.
The milestone reflects the state's progress in expanding access to education and promoting adult learning. Education experts believe that improving literacy levels contributes to better employment opportunities, social development and inclusive economic growth.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Welcomes The Achievement
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described the achievement as a proud moment for Uttarakhand and congratulated the people of the state. He said the success reflects the combined efforts of citizens, teachers, volunteers and government agencies working towards universal literacy.
The Chief Minister added that improving literacy is an important step in achieving the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. He also reiterated the government's commitment to expanding digital literacy, financial literacy, continuing education and life skills so that every citizen can benefit from new learning opportunities and contribute to the state's overall development.
Focus On Lifelong Learning Under NEP 2020
The ULLAS programme, introduced under the National Education Policy 2020, aims to promote lifelong learning beyond conventional schooling. Along with basic literacy, the programme encourages functional literacy, vocational skills, digital awareness and financial education for adults.
Officials said Uttarakhand will continue strengthening these initiatives to ensure that literacy is accompanied by practical skills that improve quality of life and support sustainable social and economic progress across the state.