Ladakh, June 24: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Dr. B.D. Mishra, declared that Ladakh has achieved full functional literacy under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, boasting a literacy rate exceeding 97%.
This achievement highlights Ladakh empowering its citizens through foundational literacy, numeracy, and essential life skills. The announcement was made during a celebration at Sindhu Sanskritik Kendra (SSK) in Leh.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India; Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary; Dr. Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman of LAHDC, Kargil; and Sanjeev Khirwar, Principal Secretary of School Education, Ladakh. More than 500 newly literate individuals and volunteers attended the ceremony.
The celebration featured the recognition of new literates and volunteer teachers, the launch of the 2023 Annual Achievement Report of the school department, and a visit to the ULLAS Mela. Dr. Mishra encouraged the new learners and volunteers to pursue lifelong learning and emphasized the importance of parents sending their children to school. He also urged students to aspire not only for jobs but also to become job creators.
In his address, Sanjay Kumar congratulated the people of Ladakh on this significant achievement and assured continued support from the Ministry of Education to enhance the region’s school education system.
He reiterated that education has the power to transform the world and noted that the ULLAS initiative, rooted in volunteerism, brings immense joy to new learners. He highlighted the inspiring stories of perseverance, such as taking exams in snowy conditions, which exemplify Ladakh’s passion for literacy. Kumar emphasized that this achievement sets the stage for lasting positive change and boundless opportunities in Ladakh.
ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, also known as the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), is a centrally sponsored scheme running from 2022 to 2027. It aligns with the NEP 2020 and aims to empower adults aged 15 and above who missed out on formal schooling, helping them integrate into society and contribute to the country’s growth.
The scheme includes five components: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills, and Continuing Education. The ULLAS Scheme, inspired by the spirit of volunteerism and Kartvya Bodh, has benefited over 77 lakh people across the country. The ULLAS Mobile App has enrolled more than 1.29 crore learners and 35 lakh volunteer teachers.