Gangtok: Sikkim was officially declared a fully literate state on Wednesday in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu.

The announcement was made by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang during the convocation ceremony of Sikkim University at Manan Kendra in Gangtok under the Centre’s ULLAS (Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative.

Congratulating the people and government of Sikkim, President Murmu described the achievement as a major step towards inclusive development and social empowerment through education.

Chief Minister Tamang called the declaration a “historic and proud occasion” and said it marked a defining milestone in the state’s educational and social progress.

“Heartiest congratulations to the people of Sikkim on the historic and proud occasion of our state being formally declared a Fully Literate State under the ULLAS, Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram,” he said.

Tamang said the achievement reflected the government’s commitment to ensuring that no adult citizen was left behind in the pursuit of education, dignity and empowerment.

“From the remotest villages to every block and gram panchayat, this mission has reached every corner of Sikkim with dedication and determination,” he added.

The chief minister said the literacy mission succeeded because of the determination of learners across age groups, many of whom learnt to read and write for the first time.

“Their determination embodies the true spirit of ‘Saakshar Sikkim’ and serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations,” he said.

Tamang also thanked the state Education Department, volunteer teachers, coordinators and officials associated with the campaign for their contribution towards the literacy drive.

Describing literacy as the foundation of empowerment, equality and progress, he urged citizens to continue working towards building a stronger and self-reliant Sikkim where education and opportunities reach every section of society.