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The Ministry of Education, Government of India, has introduced a refined and inclusive definition of literacy to enhance the nation’s literacy goals. This updated framework is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses the importance of innovative adult education programmes. These initiatives leverage community engagement and technology integration to achieve 100% literacy, underscoring the significant role that technology plays in modern education.
This approach highlights the critical connection between literacy and economic growth. It addresses the various challenges faced by individuals without literacy skills, including difficulties in financial transactions, job applications, understanding media, and participating in high-productivity sectors. By broadening the definition of literacy to include digital and financial skills, the policy aims to ensure that individuals are better equipped to navigate and contribute to today’s digital economy.
The initiative, part of the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, supports the objectives of NEP 2020 and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.6. This goal aims to ensure that all youth and a significant proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy by 2030. The introduction of this comprehensive definition marks a significant step towards realising a fully literate and digitally adept society in India.
Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the importance of this initiative during his address at the ULLAS Mela in New Delhi on February 6, 2024. He emphasised that the ULLAS scheme is foundational to achieving a “Viksit Bharat” and stressed the role of literacy in realising this vision as articulated by India’s Prime Minister.
To address these needs, the Department of School Education and Literacy has redefined literacy to encompass more than basic reading and writing. Literacy now includes the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension, as well as essential life skills such as digital and financial literacy. This broader definition ensures that individuals are well-equipped to fully engage with and contribute to society.
The Department has also set a benchmark of 95% literacy in a State/UT as equivalent to achieving full literacy within the Indian context. This updated definition was developed through collaboration with experts from NCERT, UNESCO, and other educational advisors, reflecting both global standards and India’s unique socio-cultural landscape.
This new definition marks a significant milestone in India’s literacy journey, reinforcing the government’s commitment to providing all citizens with foundational skills necessary for personal and societal advancement. The recent achievement of over 97% literacy in Ladakh under the ULLAS scheme serves as a benchmark and demonstrates the effectiveness of these efforts.
India is committed to upskilling its citizens to actively engage in and benefit from its digital transformation journey. By enhancing digital and technical skills across diverse sectors, the country aims to ensure that its workforce is well-prepared to contribute to and thrive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
The inaugural Digital India FutureSKILLS Summit in Guwahati highlighted India’s commitment to developing a future-ready workforce in emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and semiconductors. The summit highlighted the importance of equipping youth with advanced skills to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving digital landscape and democratise access to technological opportunities across the nation.
By integrating the new, broader definition of literacy – encompassing not just basic reading and writing but also critical skills like digital and financial literacy – India is strategically aligning educational programmes with industry needs and fostering key collaborations. This approach ensures that citizens are well-equipped to participate in and benefit from the nation’s digital transformation journey.
As a result, India is poised to lead in technological innovation and inclusive growth, setting the stage for a future where its workforce can thrive in a technology-driven economy.
