Panaji: Goa has officially achieved full functional literacy under the ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme), becoming the second state in the country to cross the nationally prescribed 95% literacy benchmark. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant during the 39th Statehood Day celebration held at Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir in Panaji.
The declaration marks a significant step towards the national goal of full literacy by 2030, as outlined in the National Education Policy 2020.
As per the 2023-24 Periodic Labour Force Survey, Goa’s literacy rate was recorded at 93.60%, already one of the highest in the country. However, a separate state-level survey conducted by the Goa government confirmed the state has now crossed the threshold for full literacy.
In achieving this, Goa adopted a Whole-of-Government approach. Departments such as Panchayats, Municipal Administration, Social Welfare, Planning & Statistics, and Women & Child Development worked together to identify and support non-literates.
Swayampurna Mitras played an active role in awareness efforts and helping learners access literacy certification and learning tools. Field workers from the Social Welfare Department were also involved in outreach and support.
The education team in Goa, including SCERT, school leaders, local bodies, and volunteers, was widely acknowledged for its efforts. The campaign has been volunteer-driven, with an emphasis on inclusive learning and coordination among various departments.
Goa’s achievement is being seen as a practical model for other states aiming to meet the national literacy targets. The milestone aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat and reflects the spirit of “Jan-Jan Sakshar”.
ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram is a centrally sponsored scheme introduced in 2022 and will run till 2027. It focuses on adult learners aged 15 and above who missed formal schooling and covers five areas: foundational literacy and numeracy, basic education, vocational skills, critical life skills, and continuing education.
To date, more than 1.77 crore learners across India have appeared for the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test under ULLAS, with over 2.40 crore learners and 41 lakh volunteers registered on the ULLAS mobile app.
BI Bureau
