International Literacy Day 2026 Celebrations Conclude with Ullas Mela in New Delhi

The two-day International Literacy Day celebrations concluded in New Delhi with the 'Ullas Mela'. The event was inaugurated by T. K. Anil Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, who described the fair as a symbol of the collective efforts of learners, volunteers, and states.

Secretary Kumar noted that the Ullas Mela provides a platform for participants to share experiences and learn from one another. He encouraged states that have already achieved full literacy to take a leadership role in the upcoming phases of the campaign, emphasizing that the benefits of education must reach the most marginalized individuals.

Addressing the youth, he urged them to play an active role in the literacy movement. He suggested that young people could fulfill their civic duties by leveraging social media and digital platforms to expand the reach of the literacy campaign to a wider audience.

NCERT Director Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani described Ullas as a significant window of opportunity for learning. He highlighted the growing importance of financial, legal, digital, and electoral literacy, which are essential for citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities in the modern era.

Prof. Saklani proposed a new incentive structure, suggesting that students could earn credit points for helping others become literate, which would further accelerate the literacy mission.

Exhibition stalls were set up by 28 states and union territories, along with NCERT, NCTE, and NIOS. These stalls showcased various teaching materials, best practices, and innovative methodologies.

Special emphasis was placed on the achievements of states that have attained full literacy. The event concluded with cultural programs and panel discussions, reaffirming the nation's commitment to universal literacy.