Himachal attains 99.55% literacy; receives national award on International Literacy Day

Himachal Pradesh has attained a remarkable 99.55% literacy rate under the New India Literacy Programme (ULLAS). On International Literacy Day, the state was honored with a national award for its progress in education. Education Minister Rohit Thakur accepted the accolade in Delhi, expressing gratitude to educators, students, and government officials for their contributions.

Himachal Pradesh secured the second spot in literacy rates, trailing only behind Goa, which boasts a 99.7% literacy rate. The state was officially declared fully literate on September 8, 2025, with a literacy rate of 99.3%. ULLAS, launched nationally in 2022-23 and implemented in Himachal Pradesh from 2023-24, has reached all 12 districts of the state.

Nearly 95,000 learners have been identified and registered on the ULLAS portal, with 19,000 volunteer teachers trained. Looking ahead, the state aims to maintain literacy levels and promote lifelong learning, digital skills, and vocational training through this initiative. The government has also set an ambitious goal to achieve 100% literacy by 2026-27.