New Delhi, Sept 8: On the occasion of International Literacy Day 2025, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced that India’s literacy rate has increased from 74% in 2011 to 80.9% in 2023–24. While hailing the rise as a positive development, he emphasised that the real measure of progress lies in making literacy a tool for empowerment, dignity, and self-reliance.
Literacy as empowerment
“Literacy goes beyond reading and writing. It is about enabling people to live with confidence and independence,” Pradhan said in his virtual address. He added that the government’s efforts are not limited to raising numbers but to ensuring that education transforms lives and communities.
ULLAS programme driving change
Pradhan credited the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram for spearheading the literacy drive. The initiative currently engages over 3 crore learners and 42 lakh volunteers across the country. Nearly 1.83 crore learners have appeared for foundational literacy and numeracy assessments, with an impressive 90% success rate.
Study materials have been made available in 26 Indian languages, ensuring inclusivity for learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds. The minister said that this broad outreach reflects India’s commitment to making literacy accessible to all.
States achieving 100% literacy
Highlighting regional successes, Pradhan praised Ladakh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, and Himachal Pradesh for achieving 100% literacy. He described these milestones as proof of what coordinated efforts by governments, communities, and volunteers can accomplish.
Focus on digital literacy
This year’s International Literacy Day is being observed under the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”. Pradhan underlined that the role of technology is becoming increasingly crucial in advancing reading, numeracy, and lifelong learning skills.
Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary noted that India has significantly broadened the scope of literacy to include digital competence. He said the country’s digital public infrastructure has enabled rapid inclusion, achieving in a decade what takes many nations half a century.
The road ahead
Pradhan concluded by urging stakeholders to see literacy as a means of empowerment, not just statistics. “Every citizen who can read, write, and navigate the digital world contributes to a stronger, self-reliant India,” he said.