Over One Lakh Elderly Citizens Appear for Literacy Test Across Maharashtra Under ULLAS Mission

Elderly citizens across Maharashtra participated enthusiastically in a statewide literacy test under the ULLAS programme, marking a significant step toward adult education and inclusive learning initiatives.

Mumbai | 29 March, 2026: In an inspiring display of determination and lifelong learning, over one lakh elderly citizens across Maharashtra appeared for a statewide literacy and numeracy assessment conducted under the centrally sponsored ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saksharta Programme. The initiative aims to provide foundational education to those who were previously deprived of formal schooling.

The examination was held across all districts in multiple sessions between 10 am and 5 pm, with participants taking the test in nine languages including Marathi, Hindi, English, Urdu, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Bengali. The large-scale आयोजन was coordinated through the UDISE system, ensuring structured implementation across numerous centres.

Out of approximately 1.23 lakh registered candidates, nearly one lakh participants-many of them aged between 60 and 70 years-turned up to take the test. For many, it was their first-ever experience of sitting in a classroom and handling a question paper, making the moment both emotional and empowering.

Across villages and towns, scenes of elderly men and women sitting on school benches reflected a quiet revolution in adult education. In several instances, grandchildren accompanied their grandparents to examination centres, symbolising a heartwarming intergenerational support system. Teachers and volunteers played a crucial role in guiding participants and boosting their confidence throughout the process.

The atmosphere at examination centres was celebratory, with participants being welcomed with flowers and applause. was particularly notable, highlighting the growing awareness and acceptance of education among older women who had missed opportunities earlier in life.

Despite challenges, including limited reading and writing abilities, participants displayed remarkable enthusiasm and resilience. Many expressed joy at being able to sign their names and read basic text, describing the experience as a turning point in their lives.

Officials from the state’s school education department, along with district collectors and education officers, monitored the process closely by visiting centres and ensuring smooth conduct of the . The coordinated efforts of teachers, volunteers, and local contributed significantly to the success of the initiative.

According to officials, candidates who clear the assessment will receive certificates from the central government, validating their newly acquired literacy skills. The use of the ULLAS app for registration and tracking has further streamlined the process and expanded outreach.

The programme is being viewed as a major step toward inclusive education, aiming to bridge the literacy gap among older populations. By empowering senior citizens with basic reading, writing, and numeracy skills, the initiative not only enhances their independence but also improves their participation in social and economic activities.

As Maharashtra witnesses this encouraging response, the success of the programme underscores the importance of second-chance education and the enduring human desire to learn, regardless of age.

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