The northeastern state, which recorded a 91.33% literacy rate in the 2011 Census, has seen consistent improvement through sustained education campaigns and community-driven initiatives. Mizoram’s achievement positions it as a national leader in literacy, setting an example for others to follow.
As India’s literacy rate continues to climb—from just 14% at the time of independence to 80.9% in 2023–24, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)—the country still faces regional disparities.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most and least literate states in India, based on the latest available data:
Top 10 Most Literate States (PLFS 2023–24 & Government Data):
1. Mizoram – 98.2%
2. Kerala – ~96% (latest estimates)
3. Tripura
4. Goa
5. Delhi
6. Himachal Pradesh
7. Maharashtra
8. Sikkim
9. Punjab
10. Tamil Nadu
Bottom 10 Least Literate States:
1. Andhra Pradesh – 72.6%
2. Bihar – 74.3%
3. Rajasthan
4. Uttar Pradesh
5. Jharkhand
6. Chhattisgarh
7. Madhya Pradesh
8. Odisha
9. Assam
10. Jammu & Kashmir
(Data points for some states beyond AP and Bihar are from previous census rounds and government literacy surveys.)
Literacy, as defined by the Office of the Registrar General of India, includes the ability of individuals aged seven and above to read and write with understanding in any language.
