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Education
Himachal Pradesh hits 99.55% literacy, ranks second nationally, receives award
✍️ India Today
🗓 09 Sep 2026, 07:33 PM
👁 20
Himachal Pradesh recorded a 99.55% literacy rate, making it the second‑most literate state in India and earning a national literacy award.
Himachal Pradesh has achieved a literacy rate of 99.55%, according to the latest figures released by the Ministry of Education. The state now ranks second in the country for overall literacy, trailing only behind Kerala.
The new data places Himachal well above the national average, which hovers around 77%, and reflects sustained efforts in primary and adult education over the past decade. Government initiatives such as the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and state‑run community learning centers have been credited with driving enrollment and retention.
In recognition of this performance, the central government presented Himachal Pradesh with a national literacy award during a ceremony in New Delhi. Officials highlighted the state's model programs as examples for other regions seeking to improve educational outcomes.
State authorities said the award will reinforce ongoing strategies to maintain high literacy levels, especially in remote hill districts where access to schools remains a challenge. They reaffirmed their commitment to universal education as a cornerstone of Himachal's development agenda.
The new data places Himachal well above the national average, which hovers around 77%, and reflects sustained efforts in primary and adult education over the past decade. Government initiatives such as the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and state‑run community learning centers have been credited with driving enrollment and retention.
In recognition of this performance, the central government presented Himachal Pradesh with a national literacy award during a ceremony in New Delhi. Officials highlighted the state's model programs as examples for other regions seeking to improve educational outcomes.
State authorities said the award will reinforce ongoing strategies to maintain high literacy levels, especially in remote hill districts where access to schools remains a challenge. They reaffirmed their commitment to universal education as a cornerstone of Himachal's development agenda.