Mizoram achieved a historic milestone in May 2025 when it was declared India’s first “fully literate” state. However, Chief Minister Lalduhoma has raised a red flag regarding the quality of this education. Speaking on December 17, 2025, the CM noted a troubling trend: Mizo students lagging in national exams compared to Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates from other Indian states. This “literacy paradox” suggests that while people can read and write, they are not yet competitive enough to secure top-tier government positions.
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The Literacy Milestone vs. Competitive Reality
During the inauguration of the 4th Winter-cum-Cultural Festival at Serchhip Government College, Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the disconnect between basic literacy and academic excellence. Mizoram currently boasts a functional literacy rate of over 98%, surpassing the national benchmark. Yet, this achievement has not translated into success in central services like the UPSC, SSC, or banking exams.
The CM pointed out that many posts reserved for ST candidates remain vacant because local applicants either do not qualify or fail to apply. This gap denies Mizo youth the opportunity to serve in influential central government roles. According to the CM, the primary culprits are a lack of motivation, determination, and perseverance among the current generation of students.
Institutional Gaps and the Path Forward
To address the issue of Mizo students lagging in national exams, the state government is planning significant institutional changes. One of the major announcements made by CM Lalduhoma is the upcoming establishment of Mizoram State University. By creating more localized higher education opportunities, the government hopes to foster a culture of academic rigor that is currently missing.
Additionally, the Mizoram Engineering College in Lunglei is expected to begin its academic sessions next year. These technical and specialized institutions aim to bridge the skill gap that prevents students from competing at the national level.
Addressing the Motivation Crisis
Lalduhoma urged students to look beyond the comfort of their home state. He identified that a “lack of perseverance” often stops students from attempting exams multiple times—a common requirement for clearing national-level tests. The government is now encouraging students to seek enrollment in centrally-run institutions like Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNV) and Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) to gain broader exposure.
Government Efforts to Support Youth and Farmers
While addressing education, the CM also linked economic stability to student success. He highlighted the ‘Bana Kaih’ (Handholding) scheme, which provides project-based, interest-free loans to encourage self-reliance. This economic cushion is intended to allow families to invest more in their children’s long-term educational goals rather than seeking immediate, low-skilled employment.
Furthermore, the government has created over 2,000 jobs through a transparent, merit-based recruitment process. The CM emphasized that these jobs are for those who work hard, reinforcing the message that merit—not just literacy—is the key to a successful career.
The Roadmap for Mizo Students
- Motivation: Encouraging students to aim for central civil and technical services.
- Infrastructure: Building State Universities and Engineering Colleges.
- Skill Development: Providing training for youths rescued from drug abuse to ensure no one is left behind.
- Meritocracy: Ensuring all government recruitments are strictly based on qualifications.
Conclusion: Beyond the 100% Literacy Mark
The concern of Mizo students lagging in national exams is a wake-up call for the state’s education department and the student community. Literacy is merely the foundation; the real goal is employability and national representation. By focusing on competitive training and psychological motivation, Mizoram aims to turn its literacy success into a professional triumph.
As CM Lalduhoma stated, the state must transition from being “educated” to being “competitive.” Only then can the youth of Mizoram fully utilize the opportunities reserved for them on the national stage.
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