International Literacy Day was observed on 8 September 2026 under the UNESCO theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.” The day marked its 60th anniversary and highlighted the importance of literacy for individuals, sustainable development, and global prosperity.
- Established: 1966 by UNESCO; first observed in 1967.
- Date: 8 September every year.
- 2026 Theme: Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.
- Global adult literacy rate: 88%, up from 65% in 1975.
- Around 739 million youth and adults still lack basic literacy skills.
- India’s literacy rate: approximately 77.7%–79.7% in 2026.
- Highest literacy rate: Kerala – 96.2%.
- Lowest literacy rate: Bihar – 63.8%–74.3%.
- Sikkim was declared a Fully Literate State in May 2026, achieving 99.82% literacy.
- India continues to promote literacy through initiatives such as NEP 2020, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and the National Literacy Mission.
