Tripura has emerged as one of the top-performing states in the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) 2024-25, demonstrating an exceptional success rate in adult literacy certification. Also, alongside Delhi and Tamil Nadu, the state has set a national benchmark in tackling adult education challenges.
The Ministry of Education released the FLNAT report on Tuesday, highlighting Tripura’s near-perfect certification rates among adult learners enrolled under the centrally sponsored New India Literacy Programme (NILP). The state has shown consistent progress in literacy. And, numeracy among individuals aged 15 years and above.
Tripura Adult Literacy Success Reflects Policy Efficiency
Tripura’s outstanding performance in FLNAT is being credited to its grassroots-level implementation of adult education initiatives. According to state officials, over 98% of enrolled learners in Tripura qualified for certification. Placing it among the top three states nationwide.
Education Minister Tinku Roy lauded the efforts of community educators and administrative staff, saying:
“This achievement reflects Tripura’s dedication to inclusive education. We are not just teaching people to read and write—we are empowering them to participate in a growing economy.”
The success is also attributed to the innovative use of digital literacy modules, regular community classes, and focused monitoring by local education officers.
National Literacy Certification Lags Behind
While Tripura, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu have demonstrated encouraging results, the overall national performance paints a more sobering picture. Moreover, according to the FLNAT 2024-25 report, only 19.4% of the 22.7 lakh participants across India qualified for certification. Besodes, indicating a wide gap in learning outcomes and support infrastructure.
The FLNAT evaluation covered five core areas: Reading Comprehension, Numeracy, Financial Literacy, Digital Literacy, and Civic Awareness. States with under-resourced rural areas struggled to meet the learning benchmarks due to limited instructor availability, internet connectivity issues, and inadequate funding.
Focus on Holistic Lifelong Learning
The New India Literacy Programme (2022–2027) under which FLNAT is conducted, aims to educate non-literate individuals aged 15 and above, using both physical and digital modes of instruction. Also, the scheme encourages volunteerism and community participation in teaching, which has seen strong uptake in northeastern states like Tripura and Assam.
Experts say the success in Tripura stems from integrating adult literacy programs with livelihood training and women’s self-help groups, creating a compelling incentive for participation.
Dr. Aditi Roy, an educational consultant, said:
“States like Tripura are showing how adult literacy can be made relevant and attractive. The learners are motivated because literacy is linked to jobs, banking access, and dignity.”
For national data on the New India Literacy Programme, visit the official Ministry of Education website.
States Urged to Learn from Best Practices
The Ministry of Education has called upon underperforming states to replicate the successful models of Tripura, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu. Also, a detailed guideline will be circulated to all education departments. Further, outlining best practices in training, assessment, and learner retention.
Officials from the National Literacy Mission Authority (NLMA) will also conduct inter-state visits. For document model implementations and provide on-ground mentorship.
Call to Action for Local Stakeholders
Education departments, NGOs, and local governments are urged to collaborate on scalable and inclusive learning models. Stakeholders are encouraged to promote literacy through cultural programs, radio broadcasts, and mobile applications in local languages.
“Literacy is the cornerstone of human development. Every literate adult transforms not just their own life, but the life of their entire family,” said NLMA Secretary Vinay Kumar.
Tripura’s achievement serves as a beacon of hope for the rest of India. With focused policy, strong leadership, and community involvement, adult literacy is not just a goal.It is a reality in the making.
