A remarkable feat
India is progressing in almost every field and increasing literacy and education too has been a top most priority. Today the country boasts of an enhanced literacy rate which presently stands at 80.9 per cent.
Education in today’s world is essential for personal growth, social progress, and economic development. Education not only empowers individuals with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking it also enables them to make informed decisions and take control of their lives.
Education helps individuals develop their talents, interests, and personalities, leading to personal growth and self-improvement, besides opening up new opportunities for them, enabling them to pursue their goals and aspirations.
Notably, India’s literacy rate has risen from 74 per cent in 2011 to 80.9 per cent in 2023-24.
Literacy goes beyond reading and writing. It is a means to dignity, empowerment and self-reliance.
As such the policy planners have introduced the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, under which more than 3 crore learners and 42 lakh volunteers have enrolled.
As of now nearly 1.83 crore learners have already taken foundational literacy and numeracy assessments, with 90 per cent success. The programme now offers learning material in 26 Indian languages, making literacy truly inclusive.
Interestingly, Ladakh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura and Himachal Pradesh have achieved full literacy signalling a new dawn for the entire country.
India has set an example for the world, particularly the Global South, by creating robust digital public infrastructure that has accelerated education and inclusion. Achievements that might have taken fifty years have been realised in just a decade through India’s digital innovations.
The increased literacy rates will surely lay a strong foundation for a stronger nation. The enhanced literacy rates will mean improved health outcomes, as educated individuals are more likely to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Similarly, the increase in literacy rates will also ensure that poverty can be fought more effectively. Increased literacy can help reduce poverty, as educated individuals are more likely to secure better-paying jobs and improve their economic circumstances.
India has during the past two decades been stressing on increasing the productivity in various field. The move will help the nation to perform better and survive the competitive world.
The enhanced literacy will surely come as a big support for creating avenues to increase the productivity. A literate person can help increase productivity, enabling individuals to contribute more effectively to their workplaces and communities, helping the nation’s overall growth.
