Chandigarh has been officially declared a fully literate union territory after a concerted education drive under the Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS) – Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram. Around 15,000 learners successfully qualified the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) held in September, enabling the territory to reach full literacy.
Chandigarh fully literate – what the designation means
The declaration recognises that all identified learners in Chandigarh have met the core standards of foundational literacy and numeracy set out by ULLAS. Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria described the achievement as a proud moment, saying it reflected the power of collective effort, strong community participation and the administration’s commitment to building an empowered society.
UT Chief Secretary H Rajesh Prasad credited meticulous planning and inter-departmental coordination for the result, and lauded the dedication of educators and volunteers at the grassroots. Officials emphasised that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020 and contributes to the broader national goal of Shikshit Bharat – Sashakt Bharat.
How the campaign reached every learner
The mission to attain full literacy was implemented in phased operations. Authorities carried out door-to-door surveys to identify learners and organised targeted classes for adults across the territory. Instruction reached elderly citizens and working adults in schools, parks and at home, to ensure flexible learning opportunities.
Samajik Chetna Kendras, or social awareness centres, were set up in all 111 government schools. The administration appointed 150 nodal in-charges to oversee local delivery, while a taskforce of technical members and 18 state resource groups provided training and support. The combined effort of government departments, civil society and volunteers was central to bringing thousands of learners up to the expected standard.
Broader implications for education policy
Officials said the success in Chandigarh is an example of how co-ordinated local initiatives can realise national policy aims. By prioritising foundational learning, the territory aims to improve long-term educational outcomes and open up economic opportunities for adults who lacked basic literacy and numeracy.
Education specialists note that lifelong learning programmes such as ULLAS can reduce inequality and strengthen social inclusion by targeting marginalised groups. The Chandigarh model — combining proactive outreach, community venues and school-based centres — offers a replicable framework for other jurisdictions pursuing universal literacy.
Next steps and sustaining gains
Authorities have said they will continue to monitor and support learners to ensure gains are sustained. Plans include follow-up assessments, refresher classes and expanding adult education activities to cover digital literacy and vocational skills. The administration also intends to document lessons from the campaign to help other states and union territories aiming for full literacy.
With the FLNAT results confirming the achievement, Chandigarh’s designation as a fully literate union territory marks a significant milestone in India’s education drive and highlights the impact of local action backed by national policy.
Key Takeaways:
- Chandigarh has been declared Chandigarh fully literate after 15,000 learners passed the FLNAT under ULLAS.
- The drive involved door-to-door surveys, special classes for adults, and Social Awareness Centres in all government schools.
- Officials say the milestone advances the National Education Policy 2020 and the national vision of Shikshit Bharat – Sashakt Bharat.
