The correct answer is: a) Lower than the national average.
The literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh is 67.02%, which is lower than the national average of 74.04%. This means that 67.02% of the population of Andhra Pradesh aged 7 and above can read and write, while 22.98% of the population cannot.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the low literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh. One factor is the state’s low per capita income. Andhra Pradesh is one of the poorest states in India, and this means that many people do not have access to quality education. Another factor is the state’s high rate of poverty. Poverty can prevent people from attending school or taking advantage of educational opportunities.
The low literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh has a number of negative consequences. It can lead to unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion. It can also make it difficult for people to participate in democratic processes and to make informed decisions about their lives.
The government of Andhra Pradesh has taken a number of steps to improve the literacy rate in the state. These steps include:
- Increasing the number of schools and classrooms
- Providing free education to all children
- Providing scholarships for students from poor families
- Training teachers
- Raising awareness about the importance of education
These steps have had some success, but the literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh remains low. The government will need to continue to invest in education in order to improve the literacy rate and the lives of the people of Andhra Pradesh.
Option b) is incorrect because the literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh is lower than the national average.
Option c) is incorrect because the literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh is lower than the national average.
Option d) is incorrect because the literacy rate in Andhra Pradesh is not among the highest in India.