Which one among the following is not correct? A special category State invariably

The Special Category Status (SCS) was introduced in 1969 based on the Gadgil formula to assist states facing specific geographical and socio-economic disadvantages. The National Development Council (NDC) established five key criteria for granting this status: (i) hilly and difficult terrain, (ii) low population density or a sizeable share of tribal population, (iii) strategic location along borders with neighboring countries, (iv) economic and infrastructural backwardness, and (v) non-viable nature of state finances [1]. While these states often face developmental challenges, a 'low literacy rate' is not an official criterion for the classification. In fact, some special category states like Mizoram and Uttarakhand have historically maintained high literacy rates compared to the national average [2]. Therefore, while being a border state, having harsh terrain, and possessing poor infrastructure are standard characteristics, a low literacy rate is not invariably a feature of a Special Category State.

Sources

1. [1] https://www.mha.gov.in/MHA1/Par2017/pdfs/par2018-pdfs/ls-11122018/106.pdf
2. [2] https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s32fd0648cde5b736321b544e2d0b11b41/uploads/2025/09/202509012017458420.pdf