Mizoram: Top literacy state

In an outstanding achievement, Mizoram became the first state in India to attain full literacy.

- NINGLUN HANGHAL

Declaring the status at a state function on May 20, Chief Minister Lalduhoma was quoted as saying, "We are proud to be the first, and we will work to remain the best." Marking it as a historic landmark, the state CM noted that it is a transformation for the people of Mizoram.

Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary was also present. He also visited a school and had an interaction with students and teachers in Aizawl.

The Ministry of Education's press statement underscored that this achievement stands as a powerful testament to the collaborative efforts of the people and government of Mizoram in advancing inclusive education and empowering every citizen through literacy.

A small state with a population of 1,091,014 according to the 2011 census, until a decade ago Mizoram had a literacy rate of 91.33%, ranking third in India.

Now in 2025, the state crosses the 95% literacy rate, making it the first state in the country to score the top position. As per the State Education Department evaluation, Mizoram recorded a high 98.20% literacy rate.

Under the ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme) 2022-2027 scheme, the full literacy rate was achieved. The scheme was implemented in its true spirit and deed. The state government, various departments, teachers, and the community itself participated with zeal and enthusiasm in making Mizoram a fully literate state.

The initiative took off with a door-to-door survey conducted by Cluster Resource Center Coordinators (CRCCs) across the state during August-September 2023. A total of 3,026 non-literates were identified. Out of these, 1,692 learners were eligible for basic literacy intervention and were enrolled.