A Project Report on Sampoorna Saksharta Andolan in Bellary District, Karnataka State

Abstract

From Introduction: Bellary is best known for being the centre of Vijayanagara kingdom which flourished during 16th century A.D. The famed ruins of city of Hampi, Capital of Vijayanagara empire, founded by Krishna Devaraya are found here. Inspite of large number of educational institutions, the literacy level in Bellarydistrict is extremely low, with only 37.02% literates which is lower than the state level average of 59.98%. Despite being economically well endowed, compared to other districts, the literacy level have historically tended to be low. Infrastructure wise also the district is backward. This has invariably resulted in social indicators like health, primary education, infant mortality rate, family planning coverage etc. being absymally low. It has been conclusively proved that literacy levels have positive correlations with the social indicators. Hence, there is a dire need to eradicate illiteracy specially amongst the rural women to prepare a favourable climate for success of social welfare schemes. Since the number of illiterates are high and well spread out throughout the district, this warrants launching of the programme "total literacy campaign", on war footing basis.