Change in Rural Literacy in India | Original Article

ABSTRACT:

Literacy and level of education are basic indicators of the level of development achieved by a society. Spread of literacy is generally associated with important traits of modern civilization such as modernization, urbanization, industrialization, communication and commerce. Literacy is one of the great challenges in the developing world. But universal education is an unattainable dream for those who lack access to quality educational resources. Worse, many of them do not attend due to their need to work for the family in the agricultural fields or households. Although Literacy forms an important input in overall development of individuals enabling them to comprehend their social, political and cultural environment better and respond to it appropriately. This paper reports on this summative change in rural learning assessment. While we found learning across the board, higher levels of education and literacy lead to a greater awareness and also contributes in improvement of economic and social conditions. It acts as a catalyst for social upliftment enhancing the returns on investment made in almost every aspect of development effort, be it population control, health, hygiene, environmental degradation control, employment of weaker sections of the society.