Muslim Literacy Rate Sees Steady Growth, Reaches 79.5% in 2023-24: Government Report

New Delhi: The literacy rate among Muslims in India has shown a significant upward trend over the past two decades, reaching 79.5% in 2023-24, as per the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) report. The data, presented in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, highlights a steady improvement in educational attainment within the Muslim community.

According to Census 2001, the literacy rate among Muslims aged 7 years and above was 59.1%, compared to the national literacy rate of 64.8%. A decade later, Census 2011 recorded a rise in literacy among Muslims to 68.5%, while the all-India literacy rate stood at 73.0%. The latest PLFS 2023-24 report now places the literacy rate for Muslims at 79.5%, narrowing the gap with the national average literacy rate of 80.9% for all religions.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs, which is responsible for the welfare and socio-economic development of six notified minority communities—Buddhists, Christians, Jains, Muslims, Parsis, and Sikhs—has played a crucial role in improving literacy rates. The government has implemented a multi-pronged strategy focusing on educational empowerment, economic upliftment, infrastructure development, and strengthening of minority institutions.

Various scholarship schemes, skill development programs, and educational initiatives introduced over the years have contributed to this upward trajectory in literacy rates. The government remains committed to further bridging the gap and ensuring equitable access to education for all communities.