SRINAGAR: The 14th ‘National Voters Day’ (NVD) was today celebrated across all the districts of Kashmir to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950.
The National Voters Day is observed annually on 25 January to create electoral awareness amongst citizens and encourage them to participate in the electoral process. Dedicated to the voters, the National Voters’ Day is also used to facilitate enrolment of voters, especially the newly eligible young voters.
Dedicated to the voters, the NVD 2024 theme – ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For Sure’ is a continuation of last year’s theme and conveys individuals’ feelings and aspirations toward participation in the electoral process through the power of their vote.
Since 2011, 25th January is being celebrated annually as voters’ day to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India.
At Srinagar, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, who is also the District Election Officer (DEO) today, flagged-off the Walkathon Rally ‘Run for Democracy’ at SKICC, here as a part of National Voters Day being celebrated to create awareness of the significance of every voter casting his vote.
The DC/DEO also flagged-off a Shikara ride from the banks of world famous Dal Lake to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950.
Addressing the large gathering of participants, the DC/DEO emphasized on the need to understand the value of participating in the electoral process and one’s voting rights. He said it is imperative for every citizen who has attained 18 years of age to get included in the voter list to exercise franchise in every election as part of discharging their democratic duty.
The DC/DEO urged the participants to carry forward the message regarding power of voting and spread awareness about the importance of voting in a democracy. He said National Voters Day also educates people about their voting rights and encourages youngsters, who have reached the age of 18, to participate in the electoral process.
Dr Bilal added that greater electoral participation helps in making good welfare and developmental plans/policies which in turn make the roots of democracy stronger. He stressed on responsibility to vote besides the right to vote to strengthen the democratic setup.
Chief Education Officer, Chief Planning Officer, Deputy District Election Officer, Electoral Registration Officers of Khanyar, Batamaloo and Habba Kadal, Director SKICC, Divisional Sports Officer, Tehsildar Khanyar, other Officers/Officials of the District Election Authority were present on the occasion.
At Baramulla, the District Administration Baramulla today organized a programme at Dak Bunglow here to celebrate 14th National Voters’ Day.
The programme commenced with District Election Officer Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, administering a pledge at the DC office premises to participating young voters, students, officers and officials, to commit to upholding our nation’s democratic traditions and ensuring the integrity of free, fair, and peaceful elections.
The DEO in presence of other officers flagged-off a rally from DC office premises which was joined by young voters, students, and other officers officials of the district administration.
The rally culminated at Dak Bunglow, Baramulla where under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP), a daylong voter awareness program was held by Election Office Baramulla.
The programme was attended by Additional District Development Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Principal GMC, Principal Boys Degree College, Dy District Election Officer, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Nodal Officer SVEEP, Naib-Tehsildar Election, Electoral Roll Officers (EROs), Assistant Electoral Roll Offices (AEROs), BLOs, young voters, students and other officials of the district.
Minga Sherpa welcomed the young voters and underscored the importance of participating in the electoral process to uphold the true essence of democracy.
The DEO further highlighted that Voters’ Day serves as a tribute to the essence of democracy, outlining the vital role played by voters in shaping the nation’s destiny.
The Election Office Baramulla later felicitated the top performing ERO AERO, BLO and others for their exemplary performance in the district. Additionally, the students who participated in the painting competition organised under SVEEP by the Election Office Baramulla were felicitated.
At Anantnag, an air of enthusiasm and patriotism enveloped Anantnag as the 14th National Voters Day unfolded in a vibrant celebration, drawing a significant turnout of newly enrolled voters, PWD electors, icons, and senior citizens.
The event garnered attention from distinguished guests, including the Deputy District Election Officer, Anantnag, Electoral Registration Officers, Assistant Electoral Registration Officers, Chief Education Officer, Anantnag, and District Social Welfare Officer, Anantnag.
The festivities commence with the stirring rendition of the “National Anthem” and were presided over by the District Election Officer, Anantnag, SF. Hamid.
In his address, DEO underscored the importance of National Voters Day, urging young eligible voters to actively participate in the electoral process by enrolling themselves and exercising their franchise upon turning 18.
DEO SF. Hamid emphasized the need to educate newly registered electors about the role of representatives in addressing their demands and developmental issues, highlighting voting as the backbone of democracy. Acknowledging the District Election Team’s efforts, including EROs, AEROs, and BLOs, the DEO expressed gratitude for their tireless work in reaching every voter during the Special Summary Revision.
A pledge administered to all participants was followed by a prize distribution ceremony, recognizing the contributions of employees and participating students. A cultural bonanza, portraying the significance of being voters, captivated the audience, delivering a powerful message about the imperative of massive voter participation during elections and its profound impact on strengthening democracy.
Nazia Hassan, Deputy District Election Officer, Anantnag, delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the importance of National Voters Day and urging substantial participation in future elections.
A symposium titled “Nothing like voting, I vote for sure” engaged students from various educational institutions, accompanied by cultural programs, folk dances, skits, and patriotic songs, all highlighting the event’s significance.
Similar functions were conducted at ERO Offices, Tehsil headquarters, and polling stations to raise awareness among the general public.
At Budgam, to commemorate 14th National Voters Day, an event was today organized at Shiekh-ul-Alam Hall, Budgam which was presided over by District Election Officer/Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Akshay Labroo.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC deliberated on the importance of celebrating the National Voters Day and said that the right to vote empowers citizens to exercise his/her franchise for nation building and for making the democracy strong.
On the occasion, the DC appreciated on registering increase in the gender ratio, elector to population ratio under special summary revision of Electoral Rolls in the district.
The DC said that the district administration is committed to ensure smooth voting access to every eligible voter for conducting free and fair Elections in the district.
He further hoped that this year the constituencies under Budgam district shall achieve a new feat in ensuring maximum voter turnout across the Country and UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
ADDC Budgam, Dr Akramullah Tak; CPO, Fayaz Ahmad; CEO Budgam, Mushtaq Ahmad; Dy. Election Officer Shakeel Ahmad; DDCs, BDCs and other civil and police officers were also present on the occasion.
The participants also pledged to participate in the election process free and fairly and vowed to contribute in making the nation strong by using their franchise.
Various resource persons also spoke on the theme and deliberated on the importance of voting rights.
Functions were also held at Townhall Budgam, SDM offices, Tehsil Offices, PHE, Social Welfare, District Handicraft office, Labour office, Chief Medical Officer’s office and all other offices of the District. Pledges were also taken in this regard.
New eligible voters, BLOs and officials of Election department were also felicitated for their exemplary work on the occasion.
At Ganderbal, the 14th National Voters Day was today celebrated in district Ganderbal to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950.
The main function was organized in the conference hall of mini secretariat Ganderbal which was presided over by the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir.
Addressing the gathering, the DEO said that the main aim of celebrating the Day is that democracy should reach grass roots level so that more and more people take part in the democratic process.
He said voting rights are a social equalizer, everybody who is a citizen has the same rights and the same say in the formation of Governments. He urged the youngsters to know the strength of their vote and make a statement by using their vote.
Throwing light on the significance of the Day, the DC highlighted the importance of taking part in Democratic Process and educated new voters regarding the importance of exercising their franchise.
During the function, the DC felicitated various students who had excelled in various fields.
The DC also administered the pledge on the occasion to the participants who pledged to participate in the election process free and fairly and vowed to contribute in making the nation strong by using their franchise.
The DC appreciated the electoral team and urged them to work with added zeal and dedication to ensure that they reach to the last voter so that maximum voter participation is ensured
Among others, the event was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Gulzar Ahmad, ACR, CEO, district Officers, DDC members and students.
At Pulwama, the District Administration Pulwama today organised a remarkable celebration of the 14th National Voters’ Day at the auditorium Hall of GDC Boys.
District Election Officer (DEO), Dr Basharat Qayoom graced the occasion as the chief guest. He was accompanied by SSP Pulwama and other District officers on this occasion.
The District Election Officer administered the Voters’ Day Pledge, underscoring the commitment to uphold democratic traditions and ethical voting practices.
Organized in collaboration with educational institutions and civil society organizations the event saw enthusiastic involvement from students, officials and the public.
The District Election Officer emphasized the pivotal role of citizens in shaping the Nation’s future, urging them to actively participate in the democratic process by exercising their voting rights. He applauded the efforts of various organizations in creating awareness and promoting voter education, stressing the continuous need for efforts to increase voter registration, particularly among youth and marginalized sections of society.
As part of the celebration, new voters were felicitated, and certificates of appreciation were awarded to those who significantly contributed to voter awareness campaigns. An exhibition showcasing the evolution of the Indian electoral process provided valuable insights into the democratic heritage of the country.
At Kulgam, 14th National Voters Day was celebrated at Kulgam where a grand function was held at New Conference Hall mini-secretariat Kulgam.
The District Election Officer/Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan presided over the event.
Addressing the occasion, DEO Kulgam deliberated on the importance of celebrating the National Voters Day and said that the right to vote empowers citizens to exercise his/her franchise for nation building and for making the democracy strong.
He said that during the Special Summary Revisions more than fifteen thousand new voters were enrolled to take part in the Democratic process.
DC added that every single vote counts and is important for the government formation and people must exercise this right responsibly and people must realize the power at their hands.
On the occasion DEO also administered the pledge to the participant.
The event was attended by Dy-DEO, ACR, ACD, District/Sector Officers senior citizens, BLOs, Newly enrolled voters and students.
At Kupwara, the main function to commemorate 14th National Voters Day (NVD) was today held at town hall Kupwara where Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan presided over the event as the chief guest.
The event was organized by the District Election Office Kupwara under SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation).
On the occasion, the DC who is also District Election Officer (DEO) administered the Voter’s Pledge to the participants.
Addressing the gathering, the DC highlighted the importance of elections in a democratic setup. She said that every vote matters and people must use the power of vote, judiciously. She urged all the youth, who are in the age group of 18 plus to vote this time in huge numbers.
Highlighting the main purpose of the SVEEP, DC said that the goal of the SVEEP is to promote voter awareness, education and participation in the electoral process. It aims to ensure that voters are well informed about the electoral process, their rights, and responsibilities thereby encouraging increased voter turnout and fostering a vibrant democracy.
DC further said that this time under SVEEP Youth icon and renowned Singer Kabul Bukhari has been nominated as SVEEP ambassador for Kupwara district.
Iftikhar Naseem, DIO Kupwara who is also Nodal Officer SVEEP, while presenting the welcome address said that enthusiasm in fresh voters and students present in the event is inspiring us all as they are the torch bearers of a vibrant democracy of India.
Meanwhile, Kabul Bukhari who has been nominated as SVEEP ambassador has congratulated the people of Kupwara district on National voters day. In a video message, he appealed to the youth to embrace the spirit of democracy and join the Electoral process to shape the future of the nation.
During the function, the best AERO, BLO, fresh voters, old age voters, and women voters were felicitated for showing extraordinary performance. Students who participated and showed their best performance in the Essay competition under SVEEP were also felicitated.
Earlier, a colorful cultural programme and skit depicting the importance of voting was presented by students which enthralled the audience. A skit was also presented to highlight the importance of voting
Additional Development Commissioner Kupwara, Gh.Nabi Bhat, ACR Kupwara, Irfan Bahadur, besides other district and Sectoral officers, BLOs, PWD voters, fresh voters and students from various schools were also present in the function.
National voter’s day was also celebrated at Sub Division Handwara, where ADC Handwara Nazir Ahmed Mir presided over the event.
At Shopian, A grand function on National Voters day was organised today under the Chairmanship of District Election Officer, Faz Lul Haseeb at Mini-Secretariat Shopian.
The function started with the NVD song ‘Me Bharat Hun’ followed by the pledge taking ceremony.
During the function, students from different schools of the district showcased their skills through painting and debate contests.
The function was also attended among others by Additional District Development Commissioner Shopian, Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz; Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Shopian, Shahbaz Ahmed Bodha and all the district officers.
On the occasion many BLOs and officials of the election department were felicitated by the District Election Officer for their remarkable public service.
The NVD function was also celebrated all across the district at Booth Level, AERO Level, and ERO Level and in all other educational institutions of the district.
Many PWD electors and Senior citizens also participated in the ceremony of National Voters Day.
The District Icons made their participation and recorded their messages for the awareness of the general public about the importance of participation in the electoral processes.
During the event the newly registered electors were felicitated with EPIC cards and badges.
The best performance officers/officials, BLOs and District Level Master Trainers were felicitated with appreciation certificates.
At Bandipora, in connection with the National Voters Day (NVD), various programmes were held across Bandipora district to educate new voters regarding the importance of exercising their franchise.
The main function was held at Conference Hall, Mini-Secretariat Bandipora, wherein Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Shakeel Ul Rehman Rather presided over the function as chief guest.
ACR Bandipora, Deputy District Election Officer Bandipora, Nodal Officer SVEEP, other district/sectoral officers/ Election Nodal Officers besides a larger gathering of youth, including students, were also present on the occasion.
On the occasion, District Election Officer Bandipora (DEO), Shakeel Ur Rehman Rather, read the Voter’s Pledge while the audience too participated and pledged to be the responsible citizens.
DC, who is also District Election Officer, said that the main aim of celebrating the Day is that democracy should reach the grassroots level so that more and more people take part in the democratic process.
While signifying the importance of casting a vote, he urged the youngsters to know the strength of their vote and make a statement by using their vote.
Rather threw light on the significance of the day and said that the main objective of the day is to ensure that a maximum number of young voters take part in the decision-making.
Subsequently, the DC flagged-off an awareness rally from the premises of Mini Secretariat Bandipora in order to educate the masses about the electoral process and the importance of exercising precious vote in a democratic set up.
Similar functions were held at Sub Divisional Level and Tehsil headquarters of the district, which were attended by officers, students, and several newly enrolled voters.