Jammu and Kashmir declared fully literate with 98.43% literacy rate

Jammu and Kashmir has been declared a “Fully Literate Union Territory” after recording a literacy rate of 98.43 percent under the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (NBSK). Education Minister Sakina Itoo described the achievement as a “historic milestone” and a moment of immense pride for the region.

The ULLAS program is a central government adult literacy initiative designed to improve education for individuals aged 15 and older. Minister Itoo credited the success to the collective efforts of teachers, officers, volunteers, and learners across the territory, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu.

While the achievement marks a significant social transformation, observers note that the focus must now shift toward maintaining educational quality. Future challenges include addressing digital divides, improving school infrastructure, and ensuring that literacy gains are distributed evenly across different genders, geographies, and socio-economic backgrounds.