Aizawl (Mizoram) [India], May 21 (HBTV): In a landmark achievement for the country’s educational development, Mizoram on Tuesday became the first fully literate state under the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma made the announcement at a celebratory event held at the MZU Auditorium. The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary and Mizoram’s Minister of Education Dr Vanlalthlana as Guests of Honour.

‘Today marks a historic moment in the journey of our state — one that will be remembered by generations to come,’ the Chief Minister said in his address.

He described the achievement not as a mere statistic but as a transformational milestone that reflects the collective will, discipline and vision of the people. He also acknowledged the 1,692 individuals who, despite having missed earlier educational opportunities, demonstrated exceptional determination to learn later in life.

‘We celebrate this day not as the end of a campaign, but as the dawn of a new era of opportunity, empowerment and inclusion,’ Lalduhoma stated.

He emphasised the importance of sustaining this momentum by promoting continuous education, digital access and vocational skill training. ‘Let this be just the beginning. Let us now aim higher — digital literacy, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial skills for every Mizo,’ he said.

Reiterating the significance of the moment, he declared, ‘We are proud to be the first — and we will work to remain the best.’

He concluded with a vision of collective progress: ‘Let this declaration ignite a new wave of learning and empowerment. Together, we move forward — toward a smarter, stronger, and more inclusive Mizoram.’

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary congratulated the people of Mizoram on the milestone and praised the dedication of all stakeholders. He lauded the state’s commitment to inclusive growth through education and expressed confidence in its continued leadership in lifelong learning.

‘This is a proud day not just for Mizoram, but for the entire nation,’ he said, extending his best wishes for the state’s future educational and developmental endeavours.

Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena chaired the event, delivering the welcome address and presenting a brief report on Mizoram’s path to achieving full literacy.

Mizoram’s recognition as the first fully literate state was granted under the Ministry of Education’s ULLAS initiative, which requires a minimum literacy rate of 95 per cent of the population. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS 2023–2024), Mizoram’s literacy rate stands at 98.2 per cent.

This achievement is the outcome of sustained efforts by the School Education Department, particularly under Samagra Shiksha and the New India Literacy Programme (Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram).

The State Government had formed a Governing Council and Executive Committee under the State Literacy Mission Authority. The State Project Office under Samagra Shiksha Mizoram led the initiative.

To support the literacy mission, the State Centre for Literacy (SCL) was established under SCERT, which developed Mizo language learning materials titled Vartian, along with an English version for learners in Lawngtlai district. Additional resources such as Romei for learners and Margdarshikha for Volunteer Teachers were also created.

Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) served as surveyors for the New India Literacy Programme, identifying 3,026 illiterate individuals aged 15 and above. Of these, 1,692 expressed willingness to learn.

To facilitate their education, District Project Offices recruited 292 Volunteer Teachers who conducted regular classes in schools, community halls, YMA libraries, and even in learners’ homes when necessary.

With a literacy rate of 98.2 per cent, Mizoram now stands as the first state in India to be recognised under ULLAS as fully literate — a model of educational progress and inclusive development.

(ANI)