Question

What is the main objective of the Wayanad Tribal Literacy programme?

• A. To provide vocational training to tribal people
• B. To establish new tribal settlements
• C. To eradicate illiteracy among tribal people in Wayanad
• D. To promote cultural exchange programs

Answer 1

Answer:

C. To eradicate illiteracy among tribal people in Wayanad

Understanding the Wayanad Tribal Literacy Programme

• The Wayanad Tribal Literacy Programme is a significant initiative aimed at tackling illiteracy among the indigenous tribal communities residing in the Wayanad district of Kerala.
• Its primary and fundamental objective is the complete eradication of illiteracy within these marginalized groups, thereby ensuring their right to education and social empowerment.

Context: Wayanad and Tribal Demographics

• Wayanad is a unique district in Kerala known for its significant tribal population, representing the largest share of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the state.
• Despite Kerala's high overall literacy rates, certain tribal pockets have historically lagged due to various socio-economic, geographical, and cultural barriers.
• These barriers include remote habitations, lack of access to educational infrastructure, poverty, language differences, and traditional lifestyle priorities.

Implementation and Key Facts

• The programme is primarily spearheaded by the Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority (KSLMA), an autonomous institution under the General Education Department, Government of Kerala.
• It focuses on imparting functional literacy, enabling participants to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic, crucial for daily life and economic participation.
• The curriculum is often tailored to the specific needs and cultural context of the tribal communities, sometimes incorporating elements of their local dialects to make learning more accessible and relevant.
• Volunteers from local communities, including literate tribal members and Kudumbashree activists, often play a crucial role in teaching and motivating learners, fostering a community-driven approach.
• The programme also often includes awareness campaigns on health, hygiene, government schemes, and rights, integrating literacy with broader social development.

Significance in Kerala Model Development

• This programme is a prime example of Kerala's commitment to its 'Kerala Model of Development', which emphasizes high human development indicators through extensive public investment in social sectors like education, health, and poverty alleviation.
• It highlights the model's focus on inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of development reach even the most vulnerable and marginalized sections of society, aligning with principles of social justice.
• By addressing tribal illiteracy, the programme aims to reduce disparities, enhance livelihood opportunities, promote self-reliance, and foster the overall well-being of these communities, contributing to equitable development.

Broader Impact and Related Initiatives

• Success in tribal literacy initiatives can lead to improved health outcomes, greater participation in local governance, increased awareness of legal rights, and better access to various government welfare schemes.
• Similar literacy and educational programmes for tribal welfare are undertaken across Kerala, often with support from the Department of Scheduled Tribes Development, local self-governing bodies (Panchayats), and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
• These collective efforts contribute significantly to the state's ongoing goal of achieving 100% literacy and ensuring that no community is left behind in its developmental journey.