Udupi: Udupi is on the verge of being declared Karnataka’s first fully literate district, marking a major milestone in the state’s literacy movement. Having achieved a literacy rate of over 95 per cent, the district has completed the preliminary process required for official recognition as a fully literate district.
The achievement is the result of sustained efforts under multiple adult literacy programmes implemented over the past three years, helping thousands of previously non-literate adults acquire basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills.
Over 6,100 adults became literate
According to officials, 6,158 adults have become newly literate through initiatives such as the Thousand Gram Panchayats Literacy Programme, the Gram Panchayat Link Document Programme and the Nav Bharat Literacy Programme.
As part of the programme, learners underwent 200 hours of training over three months using specially designed learning materials before appearing for a 150-mark examination covering reading, writing and arithmetic. Those securing the qualifying marks receive a certificate equivalent to a Class 7 qualification, enabling them to pursue further education, including appearing for the SSLC examination as private candidates.
Final declaration process underway
Officials said almost all 155 gram panchayats in the district have completed literacy training. The remaining assessments have been concluded, and the required documentation is being finalised before submission to the state government for formal approval.
Authorities believe the recognition will not only celebrate Udupi’s educational achievements but also serve as a model for other districts aiming to eliminate adult illiteracy through community participation and government-led initiatives.