PRESS RELEASE FROM BDO-CUM-EXECUTIVE MAGISTRATE NAMCHI

Namchi, 4 September: As part of the ongoing ULLAS Literacy Week (1st–8th September 2025), a block-level event was organized under the chairmanship of Shri Upendra Rai, Block Development Officer, Namchi BAC, at his office premises.

The program was held to promote the NILP (Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram) and encourage community participation towards achieving 100% literacy.

The program was organised by Shri Arun Kumar Rai AEO cum Block Nodal officer in co-ordination with JD cum district nodal officer .

The event was graced by several dignitaries and stakeholders, including:

• Mrs. Archana Gurung, Joint Director-cum-District Nodal Officer

BDO shri Upendra Rai Namchi BAC

• Shri S.K. Tiwari, Deputy Director

• Mrs. Eden Palzor Lepcha, AEO-II

• Mr. Arun Kumar Rai, AEO-cum-Block Nodal Officer

• Heads of Institutions under Namchi BAC

• Hon’ble Panchayat President, Vice President, and Ward Panchayats from all GPUs

• Assistant Director (PRI), Office Superintendent (Namchi BAC), Panchayat Inspectors, and other BAC officials

• Volunteer Teachers and other key stakeholders

The event commenced with a welcome address and introductory remarks by Mr. Arun Kumar Rai, who provided a brief overview of the NILP and ULLAS initiative. He emphasized the importance of inclusive education and active community involvement.

Mrs. Archana Gurung, Joint Director and District Nodal Officer, delivered an impactful speech underlining the critical role of literacy in social upliftment. She stressed the need for thorough surveys to identify neo-learners in all corners of the block, ensuring no potential learner is left behind. She informed the gathering about the Union and State Government’s goal to achieve 100% literacy by 2026–2027. The targeted age group for the program is 15 to 60 years, with flexibility for those above 60 years who are willing to participate and appear in FLNAT (Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test).

BDO Shri Upendra Rai, in his address, called for the active participation of all stakeholders—including Block Administration, Gram Panchayats, SHGs, School Heads, Teachers, and Education Officials—to ensure the success of the NILP. He highlighted the importance of creating a supportive and motivating learning environment for neo-learners through the efforts of Volunteer Teachers (VTs). He expressed confidence that with coordinated efforts and strong leadership, Namchi Block will leave no stone unturned in achieving the vision of a zero neo-learner society.

The event concluded with a zero hour for open discussion, where attended and exchanged ideas and expressed their commitment to the program.

The program concluded with the vote of thanks by AEO Ms Eden Palzor Lepcha.