Which year all licenses should be granted only to literate persons?

Which year all licenses should be granted only to literate persons?

Options:
(a) 1978
(b) 1983
(c) 1992
(d) 2002

✅ Correct Option: (b) 1983

Explanation (200+ words):

In 1983, the government of Pakistan introduced a regulation mandating that all driving licenses would be granted only to literate individuals. This policy aimed to promote literacy while linking civic privileges to basic education. Literacy, in this context, was defined as the ability to read and write simple texts, ensuring that license holders could understand traffic rules, safety guidelines, and official documents.

The decision emerged from the broader National Literacy Campaign and efforts by LAMEC (Literacy and Mass Education Commission). By incentivizing literacy through practical requirements like licenses, the government sought to reduce adult illiteracy rates and encourage citizens to acquire at least basic education. It also reflected the administration’s policy of integrating education with social and civic responsibilities.

This policy was significant as it linked everyday life privileges to education, a strategy recommended by UNESCO in developing countries to create societal incentives for literacy. The literacy-linked licensing system also raised awareness about the importance of reading, writing, and comprehension for public safety and personal development.

10 PPSC Facts:

  1. Year implemented: 1983.
  2. Applied to all driving licenses.
  3. Targeted literate population increase.
  4. Defined literacy as reading and writing simple texts.
  5. Linked education to civic responsibility.
  6. Implemented during Zia-ul-Haq era.
  7. Supported by LAMEC initiatives.
  8. Encouraged adult literacy.
  9. Reduced illiterate license holders on roads.
  10. Part of broader National Literacy Plan.