Rohit Kumar
Sri Vijaya Puram, 27 January 2025
The 15th edition of National Voters’ Day was celebrated in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands on January 25, 2025, with the theme “Nothing like voting, I vote for sure.” The event, organized by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, A&N Islands, took place at the auditorium of TGCE, with Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary of A&N Administration, as the chief guest.
In his address to the gathering, Dr. Kumar extended his greetings to the islanders on the occasion and emphasized India’s status as the world’s largest democracy. He reminded the audience of every eligible voter’s right to vote and underlined the significance of National Voters’ Day, which aims to encourage youth participation in elections and raise awareness about the importance of voting nationwide.
“The day also marks the foundation of the Election Commission of India (ECI) in 1950,” he stated, adding that the observance of the day since 2011 focuses on empowering citizens to vote and strengthening their involvement in the democratic process. Dr. Kumar further highlighted that voting is a fundamental right in any democracy, and each vote matters in shaping the nation’s future. He urged the eligible voters to exercise their franchise without hesitation or external influence.
In a ceremonial gesture, the Chief Secretary administered the Voters’ Day pledge to the gathering, which included newly enrolled voters. Dr. Kumar also presented e-EPICs (Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Cards) to newly registered electors, including a Divyang voter.
The celebration featured a skit by JNRM students, emphasizing the power of the vote and the importance of voting in elections. In recognition of their exceptional efforts in voter registration and awareness, Ms. M. Radha, BLO of Ward No. 9-5, Sri Vijaya Puram Tehsil, and Mr. C.H. Tripat Rao, BLO of Shore Point-2, Ferrargunj Tehsil, were felicitated for their dedication to ensuring accurate voter records and encouraging voter participation.
A documentary on the General Election 2024 was also screened during the event, offering insights into the electoral process.
The program began with a warm welcome by Mr. Vinayak Chamadia, IAS, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, A&N Islands. In his address, he emphasized that National Voters’ Day is an important occasion for raising electoral awareness and inspiring citizens to take an active part in the democratic process. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Anuja Trivedi, IAS (P).
The celebration of National Voters’ Day in A&N Islands was a reminder of the vital role every voter plays in the country’s democracy, encouraging participation and promoting an informed electorate.