The more literate the population the greater the consciousness of career options, as well as participation in the knowledge economy. Further, literacy can lead to health awareness and fuller participation in the cultural and economic well being of the community.
But, literacy varies across gender, regions and across social groups such as among the SCs and STs who have been historically disadvantaged. Inequalities in literacy are especially important because they tend to reproduce inequality across generations. Illiterate parents are at a serious disadvantage in ensuring that their children are well-educated, thus perpetuating existing inequalities.