Q1. With reference to the ULLAS–Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, consider the following statements:

1. The scheme is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020 and targets non-literate persons aged 15 years and above.
2. Its scope is restricted to foundational literacy and numeracy, excluding vocational skills and continuing education.
3. The scheme promotes volunteerism and community participation in adult education.
4. Under the ULLAS framework, a State/UT may be considered fully literate upon achieving a literacy rate of at least 95% among persons aged 15 years and above, subject to the prescribed assessment framework.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only 

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only 

(c) 2 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (b) 

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: ULLAS is a centrally sponsored adult education scheme aligned with NEP 2020, covering non-literate individuals aged 15 years and above.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Its components extend beyond foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) to include critical life skills, basic education, vocational skills and continuing education.
• Statement 3 is correct: The programme relies substantially on volunteerism and community participation to expand adult learning opportunities.
• Statement 4 is correct: The ULLAS framework uses a 95% literacy benchmark for declaring a State/UT fully literate, subject to the applicable assessment criteria.