Face2News/Chandigarh
Chandigarh has achieved a historic milestone by attaining the status of a Fully Literate Union Territory under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram. This remarkable achievement marks a significant step towards the realization of the vision of universal literacy and lifelong learning as envisaged in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The accomplishment reflects the collective commitment, tireless efforts and coordinated action of the Chandigarh Administration, educational institutions, community organizations and a large number of dedicated volunteers who worked relentlessly to ensure that no learner was left behind.
The sustained guidance and invaluable support of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, along with strategic leadership at the Union Territory level, have been instrumental in driving this literacy mission to success.
The intensive mission to achieve full literacy was executed in a phased and impactful manner. Learners were identified through door-to-door surveys and special classes were organized for adults. Through an inclusive and modern approach, elderly citizens and working adults were taught in schools, parks and at home.
Samajik Chetna Kendras (Social Awareness Centres) were established in all 111 Government schools and 150 nodal in-charges were appointed. A taskforce of technical members and 18 State Resource Groups (SRG) worked tirelessly to take Chandigarh closer to the goal of complete literacy. In September 2025, as part of the nationwide Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) conducted under ULLAS, around 15,000 learners appeared and successfully qualified, enabling Chandigarh to achieve the milestone of becoming a Fully Literate Union Territory.
Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT, Chandigarh, while expressing pride in the achievement, stated, “The declaration of Chandigarh as a Fully Literate Union Territory is a proud moment for all of us. This achievement is a testament to the power of collective effort, community participation and the unwavering commitment of the Administration towards building an enlightened and empowered society. Literacy is the foundation of social and economic progress, and this milestone strengthens our resolve to contribute to the national vision of ‘ShikshitBharat – Sashakt Bharat’.”
Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT, Chandigarh, also lauded the efforts of all stakeholders and said, “This milestone has been achieved through meticulous planning, inter-departmental coordination and the dedication of educators and volunteers at the grassroots level. The ULLAS programme has not only enhanced literacy levels but has also fostered a culture of lifelong learning across the Union Territory. Chandigarh’s success will serve as a model for other regions to follow.”
With this milestone, Chandigarh proudly stands as a beacon of knowledge and inclusion — and remains dedicated to carrying forward the mission of ‘Shikshit Bharat – Sashakt Bharat’.