India’s journey toward literacy continues to evolve, as the latest 2025 data highlights a shift in educational leadership toward smaller states and union territories.
Mizoram
At the top of the list is Mizoram, which has achieved an impressive literacy rate of 98.2%, making it the highest in the nation. This milestone is attributed to universal access to schooling in every village and strong community engagement in education.
Lakshadweep
Close behind, Lakshadweep records 97.3%. Despite its remote island geography, the territory has built an inclusive education system with well-equipped schools and trained teachers across its islands.
Nagaland
Nagaland follows with 95.7%, where non-governmental organisations and local missions have partnered with government efforts to bring education into tribal and rural heartlands.
Kerala
Kerala, long known for its literacy success, continues its legacy with 95.3%, driven by free primary and secondary education, widespread adult literacy campaigns, and robust higher-education infrastructure.
Meghalaya
Further entries in the top-10 include Meghalaya at 94.2%, where bilingual education and community schools play a key role.
Tripura and Chandigarh
Tripura and Chandigarh at 93.7% each, with Tripura emphasising rural teacher training and Chandigarh benefiting from modern infrastructure.
Goa and Puducherry
Goa at 93.6%; and Puducherry at 92.7%, noted for multilingual education initiatives and adult literacy drives. Each region’s success underscores a consistent theme: literacy improves when access, quality and community work come together.
These rankings reflect more than percentages, they reflect hope and opportunity. They show how India is narrowing educational divides and building a foundation for lifelong learning. As we look ahead, the focus must shift from access alone to quality, retention and skills to ensure every child not only registers in class but also learns and thrives.
