The two-day International Literacy Day 2026 celebrations concluded in New Delhi with the ULLAS Mela, showcasing the achievements, best practices and innovative approaches adopted by States and Union Territories to strengthen the country’s literacy movement.
Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), T. K. Anil Kumar, inaugurated the ULLAS Mela on Wednesday. Addressing the gathering, he said the event provided an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and learn from each other’s journeys.
Kumar dedicated the ULLAS Mela to participating learners, volunteer teachers and States and Union Territories, recognising their collective contribution to advancing literacy across the country.
Appreciating the colourful exhibition stalls that reflected India’s cultural diversity and richness, the Secretary urged States and Union Territories that have achieved full functional literacy to take the lead in the next phase of the ULLAS initiative.
He stressed that the literacy journey must continue beyond basic learning by promoting lifelong education, strengthening literacy skills and ensuring that the benefits of education reach the last mile.
Kumar also called upon the younger generation to become active participants in the literacy movement. He urged young people to view participation in literacy campaigns as a civic responsibility and use social media and other digital platforms to expand the campaign’s reach.
Focus on financial, digital and legal literacy
NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani described ULLAS as a window of opportunity for non-literate citizens to begin their journey towards learning and empowerment.
He highlighted the growing importance of financial, legal, digital and electoral literacy in helping citizens understand their rights and responsibilities and navigate the demands of modern society.
Saklani also suggested developing a credit and incentive mechanism through which students could earn academic credit points for helping others acquire literacy skills. Such an approach, he said, could encourage greater participation of students in literacy initiatives.
States showcase literacy achievements
Exhibition stalls were set up by 28 participating States and Union Territories, along with NCERT, the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
The stalls showcased achievements, best practices, learning materials and innovative teaching methods, with particular emphasis on the progress made by States and Union Territories that have achieved full functional literacy.
The ULLAS Mela featured a range of activities, including cultural performances and panel discussions, providing participants with an opportunity to exchange experiences and discuss ways to further strengthen literacy initiatives.
The event highlighted the broader objective of the ULLAS programme to promote literacy and lifelong learning while ensuring that education and essential forms of literacy reach citizens across the country.
