Though India registers impressive growth rates, the gains of this development have been unequally distributed across the states. Jharkhand and Bihar are two states that have been left behind. The per capita incomes of both states are far below the national average, with Bihar having the lowest in the country. According to the 2001 Census, Jharkhand and Bihar also have the lowest literacy rates in India, 54.13% and 47.53% respectively. Bihar is the only state in India where the majority of the population was illiterate. The literacy rate of both states was significantly below the national average of 65.38%. In response to this great need, NBJK was established and is currently operating in a number of districts throughout the states of Jharkhand and Bihar. The map below indicates the project locations in both states.