Literacy and Development (An Old and Rare Book)

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Born on 19th April, 1943 in Chokli, Kerala, Shri Balan obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. A prolific and versatile writer, he is also a member of Author's Guild of India as well as United Writer's Associations, Chennai.

Among the 21 books published by him are: A Hand book of Steno-Secretary, Prefect Precis Writing, Socio-economic Objectives of Trade Union Movement, Essays on Socio- cultural Problems, Education for Excellence (1986); Youth Power in the Modern World (1986): A Better India by 2000 AD (1987); Freedom Struggle and National Integration (1989). Health for all by 2000 AD (1989) Education, National Integration and Development (1990) etc.

He has also authored several articles on Education, Social Welfare, Health and several other general subjects which have been published by newspapers and periodicals from time to time.

Among the 22 awards won by him are: Best Author Award, Best Contributor's Award; National Award for Public Sector Studies 1986 and 1988; National Literacy Mission Award 1995 for best Essay and Asian Productivity Organisation Japan Award 1994 for best essay.

The Bhavan now has the privilege of publishing two of his new books namely: Health is Wealth and Literacy and Development.

There are about a 1000 million illiterate people in the World. Majority of them are in developing countries. In India, illiteracy is a fatality. According to 1991 census, about 47% of the population is illiterate. Paradoxically, they are the poor, the oppressed, under-privileged and poverty- stricken people. The benefits of development taken place in this country during the last fifty years have not reached these people for one reason or the other. But the fact remains, that they are entitled for all the benefits of progress and development like any other citizen. They are entitled to all constitutional rights and privileges. But this has not happened. This is precisely because they are illiterates. Literacy is a prerequisite to participate in developmental activities and enjoy its benefits. Literacy is a gateway to progress and prosperity. So much so, literacy and education of the illiterate people should be put on the top of national Agenda. Then only, the constitutional goal of equality and justice can be achieved.

In this light, an attempt has been made in this book to discuss the importance of literacy and development in our democracy. Hope the views expressed herein will be of interest to readers and, to some extent, useful.