Different Perspectives on Literacy

Context (TH): The Ministry of Education has provided a definition for ‘literacy’ and ‘full literacy’ as part of its efforts to enhance adult literacy through the New India Literacy Programme (NILP).

• New India Literacy Programme (NILP): A five-year initiative (2022-27) that aims to enroll 1 crore learners over the age of 15 each year across all States and Union Territories.
• Definition of Literacy: Literacy encompasses the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic with comprehension, including the skills needed to identify, understand, interpret, and create content. It also incorporates essential life skills such as digital and financial literacy.
• Definition of Full Literacy: Full literacy, which equates to 100% literacy, is achieved when a State or Union Territory reaches a 95% literacy rate.
• Criteria for Literacy under NILP: A person who is initially non-literate can be recognized as literate if they pass the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT).
• Certification Trends: In 2023, a large number of adult learners took the FLNAT, with a high success rate. However, in 2024, there was a marked reduction in the percentage of learners who were certified as literate.
• Budget for NILP: For the fiscal year 2024-25, the NILP is allocated a budget of ₹160 crores. However, in 2022-23, only ₹76.41 crores were utilized, and the budget was revised down to ₹100 crores for 2023-24.
• Census Data on Non-Literacy: According to the 2011 Census, there are 25.76 crore non-literate individuals aged 15 and above, including 9.08 crore males and 16.68 crore females.
• Saakshar Bharat Programme Achievements: From 2009-10 to 2017-18, the Saakshar Bharat Programme certified 7.64 crore individuals as literate, yet 18.12 crore adults remain non-literate.

Saakshar Bharat Programme

• Introduction: Initiated in 2009, this program primarily focuses on adult women’s literacy.
• Goals: The programme aims to achieve an 80% literacy rate nationwide.
• Target Population: It seeks to educate 70 million non-literate adults (aged 15 and above).
• Type of Programme: This is a centrally sponsored scheme.
• Core Objectives:
  • Provide functional literacy and numeracy.
  • Offer educational equivalency comparable to formal schooling.
  • Facilitate relevant skill development.
  • Encourage ongoing education and lifelong learning.