As of July 2025, India's literacy rate (estimated) is closest to which of the following?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is 79%.
Explanation:
☛ According to projections based on recent National Statistical Office (NSO) surveys and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data, India's overall literacy rate is estimated to have reached approximately 79%.
☛ India's literacy rate was recorded at 74.04% in the 2011 Census and improved to 77.7% in the NSO 2017–18 report, continuing an upward trajectory.
☛ In the Census of India, a person aged 7 years and above who can both read and write with understanding in any language is classified as literate.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Census 2011 Baseline: The male literacy rate stood at 82.14%, while the female literacy rate was 65.46%.
☛ State-wise Ranks: Kerala recorded the highest literacy rate at 94.00%, while Bihar had the lowest at 61.80% in Census 2011.
☛ Union Territories: Lakshadweep topped the Union Territories in literacy with 91.85% in Census 2011.
☛ ULLAS Initiative: The Government of India launched the New India Literacy Programme (ULLAS) for the period 2022–2027 to cover foundational literacy among non-literates aged 15 years and above.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ What was the overall literacy rate of India according to the 2011 Census? → 74.04%
☛ Which Indian state had the highest literacy rate as per Census 2011? → Kerala (94.00%)
☛ Which Indian state recorded the lowest literacy rate as per Census 2011? → Bihar (61.80%)
☛ According to Census norms in India, a person of what minimum age who can read and write is defined as literate? → 7 years and above
☛ Which adult education scheme was launched for the duration 2022–2027 by the Ministry of Education? → ULLAS (New India Literacy Programme)