Ladakh, under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Dr BD Mishra, has achieved a remarkable milestone by attaining full functional literacy under the ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. This achievement, announced by the Ministry of Education on Tuesday, signifies the region’s unwavering commitment to empowering its citizens with foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical life skills, surpassing the 97% literacy mark.
The celebration of this accomplishment took place at the Sindhu Sanskritik Kendra (SSK) in Leh, where Dr Mishra, addressing the gathering, highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and encouraged both new learners and volunteer teachers to continue their pursuit of knowledge. He emphasized the pivotal role of parents in ensuring their children’s access to education, and also urged students to not only seek employment but to also explore opportunities for job creation.
Dr Mishra lauded Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for introducing the NEP 2020, recognizing its contribution to the nation’s future growth. Sanjay Kumar, addressing the audience, congratulated the people of Ladakh on this momentous achievement and assured them of the Ministry of Education’s unwavering support in enhancing Ladakh’s school education system. He emphasized the transformative power of education and highlighted the joy that the ULLAS model, based on volunteerism, brings to new learners.
The ULLAS Mobile App serves as a platform for volunteer teachers who, without seeking any reward, dedicate their time and effort to educate the non-literate. Kumar further highlighted the inspiring stories of perseverance and dedication displayed by learners in Ladakh, including taking exams in challenging snowy conditions, reflecting the region’s unwavering passion for literacy.
The ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, also known as the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), is a centrally sponsored scheme operational from 2022-2027. Aligned with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this scheme aims to empower adults aged 15 years and above, irrespective of their backgrounds, who may have missed out on formal schooling. The goal is to integrate them into society and enable them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
The ULLAS scheme encompasses five key components: foundational literacy and numeracy, critical life skills, basic education, vocational skills, and continuing education. Guided by the vision of making Bharat Jan Jan Saakshar, driven by the spirit of Kartvya Bodh, the scheme is implemented through the dedicated efforts of volunteers. Since its inception, the scheme has positively impacted over 77 lakh individuals across the country. The ULLAS Mobile App has garnered a significant user base with more than 1.29 crore learners and 35 lakh volunteer teachers. This achievement marks a significant step towards a more literate and empowered Ladakh, paving the way for lasting positive change and limitless opportunities.
