Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

• Lieutenant Governor Dr. B.D. Mishra declared Ladakh as the administrative unit achieving Full Functional Literacy under ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, following a literacy rate exceeding 97%.
• The announcement was made at Sindhu Sanskritik Kendra (SSK), Leh, highlighting Ladakh's commitment to empowering citizens through education.

ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram

Overview:

• ULLAS, part of the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), spans 2022-2027, aligning with National Education Policy 2020.
• It aims to empower adults aged 15 and above, particularly those without prior schooling, integrating them into mainstream society for enhanced national contribution.

Components:

• The scheme includes Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills, and Continuing Education, fostering a sense of civic duty and volunteerism.

Impact:

• Nationally, ULLAS has benefited over 77 lakh individuals, supported by 1.29 crore learners and 35 lakh volunteer teachers through its dedicated mobile app.

Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakramme: Empowering Through Education For All

Introduction

• The Government of India has launched the Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakramme (नव भारत साक्षरता कार्यक्रम) for FYs 2022-2027, replacing Adult Education, to align with the National Education Policy 2020.
• This centrally sponsored scheme aims to comprehensively address literacy and educational needs through the ULLAS initiative.

ULLAS Initiative

The ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative aims to create a robust learning ecosystem targeting individuals aged 15 and above who missed formal schooling. It focuses on:

• Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: Essential skills in reading, writing, and basic arithmetic.
• Critical Life Skills: Including financial literacy, digital literacy, health care, child care, and family welfare.
• Vocational Skills Development: Training for local employment opportunities.
• Basic Education: Equivalency to preparatory, middle, and secondary stages.
• Continuing Education: Lifelong learning in arts, sciences, technology, and more.

Scheme Implementation

• Volunteerism: Implemented through volunteer efforts using the ULLAS Mobile App.
• Training and Orientation: Conducted through face-to-face workshops and digital resources.
• Coverage: Targets non-literates aged 15 years and above across all states and UTs.

Objectives and Targets

• Foundational Literacy Target: 5 crore learners over 5 years, facilitated by the Online Teaching, Learning, and Assessment System (OTLAS).
• Financial Outlay: Rs. 1037.90 crore with Central and State shares.
• Schools as Units: Utilized for beneficiary surveys and volunteer coordination.

Salient Features

• Age Cohort Strategy: Priority to 15-35 age group, followed by older cohorts, focusing on marginalized groups and aspirational districts.
• Technological Integration: Use of ICT for wider reach and efficiency.
• Performance Evaluation: Through the Performance Grading Index (PGI) and UDISE portal.
• Community Engagement: Involvement of PRIs, ASHA workers, NYSK, NSS, NCC volunteers, and CSR/philanthropic organizations.
• Media and Outreach: Utilization of various media platforms for awareness and participation.

Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Integration

• Mass Participation: Involvement of millions of students, teachers, and volunteers across educational institutions.
• Success Stories: Highlighting individual and community achievements.
• Assessment and Monitoring: Scientific assessments and outcome monitoring frameworks.

Conclusion

• Ladakh's achievement as a Full Functional Literacy unit under ULLAS exemplifies its dedication to education and societal integration.
• With robust support from government initiatives like ULLAS and National Education Policy 2020, Ladakh sets a precedent for educational excellence and community engagement, paving the way for continued growth and opportunity in the region.
• The Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakramme underscores India's commitment to education for all, fostering inclusive growth through lifelong learning.
• With a strong emphasis on literacy, critical life skills, and vocational development, supported by technological integration and community engagement, the scheme aims to empower every citizen to contribute effectively to national development.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Discuss the objectives and implementation strategies of the Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakramme (ULLAS) initiative launched by the Government of India. How does it align with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020?

SOURCE: PIB