sikkim-becomes-india-s-fifth-fully-literate-state

Sikkim has been declared a fully literate state under the Centre’s ULLAS initiative, becoming the fifth state in the country and the third in the Northeast to achieve the milestone. Sikkim now joins the list of fully literate states that includes Mizoram, Goa, Tripura and Himachal Pradesh. Mizoram was the first state in the country to achieve full literacy.

The recognition was granted under the Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS) programme launched by the Union Ministry of Education in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The initiative focuses on adult education, functional literacy and lifelong learning for people aged 15 years and above.

The announcement was made in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu during the convocation ceremony of Sikkim University at Manan Kendra in Gangtok.

The Sikkim government described the declaration as a major educational and social milestone reflecting the state’s commitment towards inclusive development and educational empowerment.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said the achievement marked a defining moment in the state’s development journey and highlighted efforts to ensure that no adult citizen was left behind in access to education and knowledge.

“From the remotest villages to every block and Gram Panchayat, this mission has reached every nook and corner of Sikkim with dedication and determination,” Tamang said in a statement.

He also praised adult learners across the state, many of whom learnt to read and write for the first time through the programme.

“What makes this accomplishment truly inspiring is the courage, perseverance and enthusiasm of the learners themselves,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the initiative reflected the spirit of “Saakshar Sikkim”.

Tamang also expressed gratitude to the Education Department, volunteer teachers, coordinators and officials associated with the literacy drive.

Officials said the ULLAS programme aims to promote continuous learning, skill development and social inclusion through literacy initiatives across the country.