Question : LITERACY RATIO

(a) whether the Government has made any assessment of literacy ratio amongst the women;

(b) if so, the ranking of India in relation to other countries in the world in this regard;

(c) whether the lack of proper infrastructural development and illiteracy amongst women folk are hindrance to the development of the country;

(d) if so, the reasons due to which the schemes meant for literacy of women are lagging behind;

(e) whether any targets were set to make women literate during the last three years; and

(f) if so, the State-wise details thereof?

MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT(SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

(a): Yes, Madam.The assessment of literacy ratio is being done as part of the census exercise.The last such assessment was done during the Census–2001.

(b): As per the United Nations Development Programme Report 2009, the ranking of India in adult literacy rate in the world is 147.

(c): Yes, Madam.

(d): The main reasons for low literacy rates among females in the country are social, cultural and religious.

(e): No, Madam.

(f): Does not arise.