GANGTOK, May 27: Sikkim achieved a historic milestone on Tuesday after being formally declared a Fully Literate State under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram during the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to the Himalayan state.
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| President Droupadi Murmu, Governor Om Prakash Mathur, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) during the formal declaration of Sikkim as a Fully Literate State under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram at Vigyan Bhawan, Gangtok, on May 27, 2026. (Image: X/PSTamangGolay) |
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) congratulated the people of Sikkim on the achievement, describing it as a defining moment in the state’s educational and social progress. He said the recognition reflects Sikkim’s commitment to ensuring that no adult citizen is left behind in the journey towards knowledge, empowerment, dignity, and inclusive development.
The declaration under the ULLAS programme marks a major achievement for Sikkim in the field of adult literacy and lifelong learning. ULLAS, which stands for “Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society,” is a centrally sponsored initiative launched by the Government of India to promote adult education and literacy across the country. The programme focuses on foundational literacy, numeracy, critical life skills, vocational skills, and continuing education for adults aged 15 years and above who missed formal schooling opportunities.
According to the Chief Minister, the literacy mission successfully reached even the remotest villages, blocks, and Gram Panchayats across the state through dedicated efforts by educators, volunteers, officials, and local communities.
“What makes this accomplishment truly inspiring is the courage, perseverance, and enthusiasm of the learners themselves - men and women, young and old - many of whom learned to read and write for the very first time in their lives,” Tamang stated.
He added that the achievement reflects the spirit of “Saakshar Sikkim” and serves as a source of inspiration for future generations.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Education Department, volunteer teachers, educators, coordinators, officials, and all individuals associated with the literacy campaign. He praised their dedication, compassion, patience, and commitment towards uplifting society through education.
Officials stated that the declaration as a Fully Literate State is expected to strengthen Sikkim’s position as one of India’s leading states in social development indicators, particularly in education, health, and human development.
The recognition also aligns with the broader objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which places strong emphasis on universal literacy and lifelong learning.
President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Sikkim added significance to the occasion, with the achievement being formally acknowledged during her official engagements in the state.
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Chief Minister Tamang emphasized that literacy goes beyond the ability to read and write and forms the foundation for self-confidence, equality, empowerment, and social progress.
“As we celebrate this historic accomplishment, let us continue to work together towards building a stronger, enlightened, self-reliant, and prosperous Sikkim where knowledge and opportunity reach every citizen,” he said.
The state government has indicated that it will continue focusing on inclusive education, skill development, and human resource growth to further strengthen Sikkim’s educational landscape in the years ahead.
