Aizawl, May 20, 2025, Virthli (ONP): In a historic milestone for the state, Mizoram has officially been declared as India’s first fully literate state under the Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS) initiative of the Ministry of Education. Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma made the announcement today during a felicitation event held at the Mizoram University Auditorium, in the presence of Union Minister of State for Education Pu Jayant Chaudhary and Mizoram’s Education Minister Dr. Vanlalthlana.
In his address, Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed deep pride in Mizoram's achievement, describing it as a defining moment in the state's history. “We have reached a milestone that reflects the collective commitment and hard work of our people,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of literacy beyond basic reading and writing, highlighting the state’s efforts to promote digital and financial literacy, as well as entrepreneurship skills.
“This is not just a conclusion of a campaign, but the beginning of a movement towards holistic education and empowerment,” he added. According to the Chief Minister, Mizoram's success was made possible by the dedication of over 1,692 volunteer educators who stepped forward to teach adult learners across the state. Many previously illiterate individuals expressed a strong desire to learn, showing remarkable enthusiasm and commitment.
Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary lauded Mizoram’s achievement, stating that it sets a powerful example for the rest of India. “Becoming the first state to be declared fully literate under ULLAS is no small feat. It shows what can be accomplished through strong governance, committed educators, and an eager population,” he said. He also emphasized the central government’s ongoing support for skill development, promising greater investment in institutions like Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state.
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Education Minister Dr. Vanlalthlana also extended his gratitude to educators, civil society, and faith-based organizations that contributed to the campaign’s success. “This has been a collective effort, and we thank every individual and organization who played a role,” he said.
The event was chaired by Chief Secretary Pu Khilli Ram Meena, who commended the state's collaborative approach and traced Mizoram’s journey toward this achievement.
To be recognized as a fully literate state under the ULLAS framework, at least 95% of the adult population must possess basic literacy skills. As per the 2023–2024 Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), Mizoram's adult literacy rate has reached 98.2%.
The campaign was implemented by the School Education Department under the Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme) with support from Samagra Shiksha. A State Project Office was constituted, and the State Centre for Literacy (SCL) was established under SCERT to oversee the initiative. SCL also developed a Mizo-language learner's primer titled ‘Vartian’, along with an English version for learners in Lawngtlai district. Learning tools such as ‘Romei’ for learners and ‘Margdarshikha’ for volunteer trainers were also created.
Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) conducted extensive surveys to identify illiterate individuals aged 15 and above. Out of 3,026 identified non-literate individuals, 1,692 expressed willingness to learn and were enrolled in classes held in schools, community halls, YMA libraries, and other accessible venues. A total of 292 volunteer teachers were mobilized to conduct these classes, some even delivering lessons at learners' homes.
With a sharp decline in the number of non-literate individuals and overwhelming public support, Mizoram has set a precedent for the rest of the country. It is now officially recognized as the first state to be declared "Fully Literate" under the ULLAS mission.
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