NATIONAL VOTERS DAY
Date of Celebration: 25th January 2025 (a day before Republic Day)
Context & Significance:
- National Voters’ Day (NVD) is celebrated annually on January 25th, to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), which was established on this date in 1950.
- The day serves to emphasize the importance of voting, raise electoral awareness, and inspire active participation in the democratic process.
THIS YEARS CELEBRATIONS
This year’s celebrations are even more significant as they coincide with 2 major milestones:
- 75 years of the Election Commission of India – marking seven and a half decades of the Commission’s service to the nation.
- India’s total electorate approaching 100 crore – The latest electoral roll stands at 99.1 crore voters, with a notable increase in youth and gender balance.
- Historical Context:
a. National Voters’ Day was first observed in 2011, and it marks a celebration of India’s democratic spirit.
b. The event highlights the critical role of voters in shaping the nation’s future.
KEY FEATURES
- Thematic Focus:
- The theme for this year’s 15th edition of NVD is “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure”, a continuation from the previous year, emphasizing the importance of voter participation and encouraging citizens to take pride in exercising their right to vote.
- Celebrations and Key Events:
- National Ceremony: The event will take place in New Delhi, with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
- Awards for Excellence: The President will present the Best Electoral Practices Awards to state and district officials who have demonstrated outstanding performance in election management.
- Focus on Electoral Engagement:
- NVD ceremonies across the country will include the presentation of Elector Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) to new voters, particularly young individuals who have just become eligible to vote.
- International Engagement:
- A 2-day conference (January 23-24) hosted by the Election Commission of India will bring together heads and representatives of election management bodies from around the world to discuss global challenges and innovations in election management.
- Voter Outreach:
- The day shows the importance of voter enrollment, especially among young voters, and encourages active participation in elections.
- It also aims to promote an understanding of the electoral process, making it accessible and inclusive.
IMPORTANT FACTS
- The Electoral Gender Ratio has improved, increasing from 948 women per 1,000 men in 2024 to 954 in 2025.
- Youth Participation: There are now 21.7 crore young electors (aged 18-29 years), marking a significant demographic shift.
- Largest Electorate in the World: India’s electorate is one of the largest in the world, and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections were held on a record scale.
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