Literacy in India

Literacy in India is a key for socio-economic progress. The 2011 census, indicated a 2001–2011 literacy growth of 9.2%, which was slower than the growth seen during the previous decade. At the then-current rate of progress in 1990, one study projected that universal literacy might be reached by 2060. The Census of India reported an average literacy rate of 73% in 2011, while the National Statistical Commission estimated it at 80.6% in 2017–18. Meanwhile, the National Sample Survey Office in its 2023–2024 annual PLFS report stated the total literacy rate of India to be 80.9%. Literacy rate in urban areas was 90%, higher than rural areas with 77%. There is a wide gender disparity in the literacy rate in India and effective literacy rates (age 7 and above) was 88% for men and 81% for women. Lower female literacy rates are associated with challenges in family planning and population stabilization in India. Studies have indicated that female literacy is a strong predictor of the use of contraception among married Indian couples, even when women do not otherwise have economic independence. The census provided a positive indication that growth in female literacy rates (11.8%) was substantially faster than in male literacy rates (6.9%) in the 2001–2011 decadal period, which means the gender gap appears to be narrowing.

Literacy involves a continuum of learning enabling individuals to achieve their goals, to develop their knowledge and potential, and to participate fully in their community and wider society."

The National Literacy Mission defines literacy as the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic, and to then apply these skills to everyday life. Practicing literacy goes beyond the basic skills, causing people to improve their living situation, make more informed decisions, and participate in society. This can be achieved through acquiring skills to improve economic status and the general wellbeing, developing awareness for the causes of deprivation, and establishing values that expand on these ideas.