Himachal Pradesh Declared Fully Literate As India Marks International Literacy Day 2025
The Ministry of Education today celebrated International Literacy Day (ILD) 2025 in New Delhi with the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.” On this occasion, Himachal Pradesh was declared the fifth State/UT to achieve full functional literacy, after Tripura, Mizoram, Goa and Ladakh.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in a virtual address, said literacy is not only about reading and writing but also about empowerment, dignity and self-reliance. He highlighted that India’s literacy rate has increased from 74% in 2011 to 80.9% in 2023–24, with major strides made under the ULLAS Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. The programme has enrolled over three crore learners and mobilised 42 lakh volunteers, with nearly 1.83 crore learners already assessed in foundational literacy and numeracy.
Congratulating Ladakh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura and Himachal Pradesh on their achievement, Pradhan said these milestones demonstrate the power of collective effort. He urged youth and students to actively contribute to the literacy mission, suggesting integration of literacy-related efforts with academic credits.
Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary, who addressed the event, said it was notable that states with difficult terrains were among the first to achieve full literacy. He stressed that literacy today also means digital, financial and civic awareness, and praised India’s Digital Public Infrastructure for accelerating progress. Chaudhary called for sustained volunteerism, linking literacy with skills and livelihoods, and expanding its definition to include digital and social awareness.
Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Sanjay Kumar, noted India’s progress from a 12% literacy rate post-independence to more than 80% today. He urged further efforts to achieve universal literacy by the next census, emphasising the blended offline-online approach of ULLAS.
On the occasion, the ULLAS Compendium was released, showcasing innovative learning materials. Representatives from Ladakh and Goa also shared their experiences and best practices. The Ministry organised ULLAS Literacy Week 2025 from September 1–8 to register new learners and volunteers across the country.
The celebration reaffirmed India’s commitment to building a fully literate and developed nation under the vision of Viksit Bharat.
