The ULLAS Navbharat Literacy Programme, a flagship initiative under the National Education Policy (NEP), is reshaping lives in Mahisagar district, Gujarat, by equipping rural women and marginalised youth with foundational literacy skills — reading, writing, numeracy, and basic financial tasks. The programme has emerged as one of the most impactful grassroots education drives in the state, with results from its first phase now on record.

Key Developments in Mahisagar

Of 717 villages in Mahisagar district, a targeted survey identified settlements where female literacy fell below 60 percent. From this, 4,697 illiterate individuals were enrolled for a six-month teaching cycle, instructed by 532 student volunteers under the supervision of 126 teachers. Classes were conducted in villages across Pakhi, Pattan, Libodra, and Ranpur.

When examinations were held in March, 4,561 individuals appeared and 4,135 passed — a pass rate exceeding 90 percent. The scheme covered practical competencies including banking procedures, post office operations, dairy-slip reading, and basic numeracy.

Voices from the Ground

Maguben, one of the learners, described the change in her own words: 'Earlier, I could only use a thumbprint (for signatures). Today, I have learned to sign my name. Teachers come and impart various lessons, which helped me pass the exam three times. We have learned to sign; we are very happy about it.'

Bhartiben, another participant, said: 'I used to struggle with reading the time and counting up to 100. The children taught me both these things. Now, I know how to read a clock and count from one to 100. Additionally, I have learned to read the slips issued when depositing milk at the dairy.'

Both accounts reflect the programme's focus on functional, everyday literacy rather than rote academic learning.

How the Programme Was Delivered

Mahisagar District Collector Arpit Sagar said the teaching sessions were scheduled between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM — a window chosen specifically because women were free from household and agricultural chores by then. Student volunteers taught reading, writing, and basic banking skills during this hour. According to the District Collector, the most encouraging aspect of the campaign was the women's own enthusiasm and consistent attendance.

The ULLAS model also integrates digital access: learners can use the DIKSHA Portal and the ULLAS mobile app for educational content in regional languages. Certificates are awarded on completion, and volunteer teachers play a dual role — as educators and as motivators sustaining long-term engagement.

Phase Two: The Road to 100% Literacy

District Collector Arpit Sagar announced that a second phase will run from 15 July to 15 October, covering the remaining 347 villages — those where female literacy already exceeds 60 percent. The stated goal is 100 percent literacy across all of Mahisagar district. Surveys in these villages will identify remaining illiterate residents, who will then be enrolled in the next teaching cycle.

The ULLAS programme also emphasises 'Kartavya Bodh' — a sense of civic duty and social responsibility — encouraging both learners and volunteer teachers to view literacy as a community obligation, not merely a personal milestone. With Phase Two now imminent, Mahisagar's model could serve as a replicable template for other districts with similar literacy gaps.