Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Dr. B.D. Mishra declared Ladakh the first administrative unit to achieve complete functional literacy under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. This significant milestone was celebrated after Ladakh achieved a literacy rate exceeding 97%. The achievement reflects Ladakh’s commitment to empowering its citizens through foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical life skills for all.

The declaration took place at the Sindhu Sanskritik Kendra (SSK) in Leh. The event was attended by dignitaries, including Shri Sanjay Kumar (Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India), Smt. Archana Sharma Awasthi (Joint Secretary), Dr. Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon (Chairman, LAHDC, Kargil), and Shri Sanjeev Khirwar (Principal Secretary of School Education, Ladakh). More than 500 new literates and volunteers participated in the celebration.

The ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (the New India Literacy Programme) is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented from 2022 to 2027. Aligned with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it aims to empower adults aged 15 years and above who missed out on formal schooling. Through volunteerism, the program bridges literacy gaps and integrates non-literates into society, contributing to the country’s growth story.

This achievement sets the stage for lasting positive change and endless opportunities in Ladakh. Education truly has the power to transform lives and communities, and Ladakh’s success exemplifies this vision.