Once again shame for India. EFA Global Monitoring Report 2013-14, commissioned by UNESCO has stated that India has the maximum number of illiterates, a 37% of the population with 28.7 crore. The population of India as per 2011 Census is 121 crore.
The literacy in India has increased from 48% in 1991 to 63%, but the number of illiterates has increased, due to the rise in the population. According to the report there are 55.7 crore illiterates in the world.
While the government is spending funds for higher and professional education, the basic education is neglected. Sufficient funds for the same are not allotted. The ruling class is not much interested in educating the poor, since education will bring to them strength to fight for their cause. Illiterates can be more exploited also.

In India two states, Kerala and Tripura are having more than 96% literacy. It can thus be seen that if there is a determination to raise literacy rate, it can be done. Literacy is the right of the citizen and the government should be compelled to ensure that each and every citizen has got the right to be educated. Literacy will empower the people.