SRINAGAR, JANUARY 25 (KNS) : Commemorating the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950, the 16th National Voters Day (NVD) was today celebrated across all districts of Kashmir division with great enthusiasm and civic spirit.
The National Voters Day is observed annually on 25 January to create electoral awareness amongst citizens and encourage their active participation in the democratic process. The celebrations this year revolved around the theme “My India, My Vote”, with the powerful tagline “Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy”, underscoring the central role of voters in strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.
Across the division, various awareness programmes, pledge ceremonies, and outreach activities were organized to highlight the importance of informed and ethical voting.
AT KULGAM: The 16th National Voters’ Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at Kulgam today, where a grand function was held at the New Conference Hall of the Mini Secretariat.
Dedicated to voters, the National Voters’ Day (NVD) 2026 theme is “My India, My Vote–Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy.
Since 2011, January 25 has been celebrated annually as National Voters’ Day to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India.
Addressing the gathering, the ADC Kulgam Viqar Ahmad Giri, congratulated the people on the occasion and highlighted the significance of National Voters’ Day.
He emphasized that the right to vote empowers citizens to exercise their democratic franchise for nation-building and strengthening democracy.
He also lauded the pivotal role played by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other election functionaries in ensuring a robust and transparent electoral process.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy District Election Officer (Dy DEO), Bashir Ul Hassan added that every single vote is vital in government formation and urged citizens to exercise their voting rights responsibly, realizing the power vested in them.
On the occasion, best-performing officers and BLOs were felicitated with certificates and mementos in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
The programme also featured captivating cultural performances by artists, who enthralled the audience through a thought-provoking drama highlighting the importance of voting.
During the function, a pledge ceremony and mass singing of “Vande Mataram,” the national song, was also held.
AT KUPWARA: The 16th National Voters’ Day was celebrated today with great zeal and enthusiasm at various locations in Kupwara district.
The main function was held at Town Hall, Kupwara, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner (District Election Officer) Kupwara, Shrikant Suse, and SSP Kupwara, Syed Al-Tahir Gilani.
Also present were ADC Kupwara, CEO Kupwara, Tehsildar Kupwara, election section officials and students.
This year, the theme of the event is “My India, My Vote” with the tagline, “Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy”.
A video message from Chief Election Commissioner of India, Shri Gyanesh Kumar, was also screened during the event.
The Deputy Commissioner administered the Voters’ Pledge to participants, including officers and students.
In his address, he highlighted the significance of voting in democracy and citizens’ role in strengthening the nation’s democratic fabric. He encouraged youth, particularly first-time voters, to actively participate in the electoral process.
ADC Kupwara and CEO/ Nodal officer SVEEP also emphasised the importance of National Voters’ Day during the event.
Students from BHSS Kupwara presented a cultural programme highlighting the importance of voting in democracy.
An award ceremony was also held and appreciation certificates given to students and participants by the District Administration.
National Voters’ Day was also marked in Handwara subdivision, presided over by ADC Handwara, Javed Naseem Masoodi, at Town Hall Handwara. SDM Lolab, Mudassir Ahmad, chaired an event at GDC Sogam. At Mini Secretariat Tangdar, Tehsildar Karnah, Mohammed Amin Bhat, led proceedings, stressing the event’s significance.
Similar events were also held at AERO level and NVD pledge was administered.
AT SHOPIAN: District Administration Shopian today celebrated the 16th National Voters’ Day with zeal and enthusiasm at the Meeting Hall, Mini Secretariat Shopian.
The programme was organized in line with the theme of National Voters’ Day 2026, My India, My Vote.
The programme was presided over by the ADC Shopian, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
In his keynote address, the ADC highlighted voting as the cornerstone of democracy and stressed the need for active and informed participation of citizens, especially youth and first-time voters, in the democratic process.
He appreciated the sustained efforts of the Election Department, BLOs and field functionaries for their dedication in ensuring inclusive elections and urged all stakeholders to continue working towards the goal of No Voter to be Left Behind.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dy. DEO Shopian, Shakoor Ahmad Dar, who highlighted the significance of National Voters’ Day in creating electoral awareness among citizens.
He emphasized the role of the Election Department in ensuring free, fair and transparent elections and underlined the importance of voter education, particularly at the grassroots level.
SDM Zainapora, Bilal Ahmad, in his address, spoke on the importance of National Voters’ Day in strengthening democratic values.
National Voters’ Day Pledge was also administered during the programme, wherein all officers, officials and participants pledged to uphold democratic values, promote ethical voting and encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
A special highlight of the programme was the felicitation of first-time voters, recognizing their entry into the democratic framework and motivating them to actively participate in nation-building through informed voting.
BLOs were also felicitated on the occasion in recognition of their dedicated grassroots level role in voter registration, awareness generation and ensuring maximum electoral participation across the district.
Additionally, officials of the Election Department were also felicitated for their exemplary contribution towards smooth conduct of electoral activities, voter enrollment drives and implementation of SVEEP initiatives.
The programme was attended by Chief Education Officer Shopian, Bashir Ahmad Shah, all Tehsildars, DSWO and a large number of officials of the Election Department.
AT PULWAMA: District Administration Pulwama today organized a mega function at Government Degree College (Boys), Pulwama, to mark the 16th National Voters’ Day, aimed at promoting electoral awareness, participation and strengthening democratic values among citizens, particularly youth and first-time voters. The event was celebrated under the theme “My India, My Vote”, which symbolizes the Election Commission of India’s commitment towards citizen-centric electoral processes and inclusive participation in democracy.
The programme commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the event.
Speaking on the occasion, District Election Officer (DEO), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, said that National Voters’ Day is celebrated annually on January 25 since 2011 to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on January 25, 1950. He said that this year’s theme “My India, My Vote” reflects the Commission’s sustained efforts to build a robust, inclusive and voter-friendly electoral system.
The DEO urged all eligible but unregistered citizens, particularly youth, to enroll themselves at the earliest and actively participate in the democratic process. While appreciating the dedicated efforts of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and supervisors, the DEO said that the electoral roll is the backbone of the electoral process and that BLOs play a pivotal role in ensuring its effective management, accuracy and credibility.
Dr. Qayoom also commended the remarkable increase in voter turnout in Pulwama district during the preceding Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly elections, stating that it reflects growing democratic awareness and public trust in the electoral system.
The DEO further highlighted the importance of democratic values and called upon citizens, especially young voters, to exercise their franchise responsibly, emphasizing that informed electoral participation is essential for a vibrant democracy.
The Deputy District Election Officer, in his welcome address, highlighted key initiatives being undertaken by the Election Commission of India to improve electoral roll accuracy, enhance voter services and ensure greater transparency and efficiency in the electoral process.
The event featured a rich array of cultural performances, including folk songs, skits, Rouf, student speeches and traditional Ladisha, portraying the importance, power and responsibility of voting in a democratic society.
Later, the DEO administered the Voters’ Pledge, wherein participants pledged to vote freely and fairly, without fear, bias or discrimination based on religion, race, caste, community or language.
Besides, on the occasion, mementos and certificates were distributed among Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant EROs, PWD icon, young voter, first-time/future voter, senior citizen, election staff, District Level Master Trainers (DLMTs), supervisors, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for their commendable performance in previous elections while Students who presented cultural performances were also felicitated.
Among others, the programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Pulwama, Tanushree; Commandant 183 BN CRPF; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama; Chief Education Officer, Pulwama; EROs, AEROs, civil society groups, students, youth and volunteer organisations such as NCC and NYCs, supervisors and BLOs.
AT BANDIPORA: The 16th National Voters’ Day–2026 was celebrated with enthusiasm across Bandipora district under the theme “My India, My Vote,” with the main function held at the Auditorium Hall of N.M. Higher Secondary School, Kaloosa.
The main event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, and attended by Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Shabir Ahmad Wani, Deputy District Election Officer, Er. Hilal Ahmad, Nodal Officer SVEEP, district and sectoral officers, youth, and students.
The programme commenced with the administration of the National Voters’ Day Pledge, reaffirming collective commitment towards upholding democratic values and ensuring informed participation in the electoral process.
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Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner described National Voters’ Day as a celebration of democracy and an important platform to motivate youth and first-time voters to actively participate in elections. She appreciated the dedicated efforts of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Anganwadi workers, and election staff in ensuring free, fair, and transparent electoral processes.
Speaking on the occasion, ACR Bandipora emphasized the role of electoral literacy in strengthening democracy and shared district-level statistics related to voter registration, electoral rolls, and election management, stressing the need for continuous awareness regarding voting rights and procedures.
The event featured a series of awareness and cultural activities, including student speeches highlighting the importance of voting, a skit titled “My India, My Vote” presented by students of BHSS Bandipora, a patriotic song by Mohammad Iqbal Lone, and screening of a documentary showcasing the District Administration’s initiatives on voter awareness, electoral literacy, and summary revision campaigns.
On the occasion, Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) were distributed among newly registered voters, while mementos were presented to BLOs and officers in recognition of their commendable contribution to election-related duties.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Deputy Chief Education Officer, Dr. G.M. Pujoo highlighted the significance of National Voters’ Day in nurturing informed, aware, and responsible citizens.
Meanwhile, National Voters’ Day was also observed at Dak Banglow Sumbal, where Electoral Registration Officer, Murtaza Ahmad Sheikh emphasized achieving 100 percent EPIC coverage, transparent electoral registration, and enhanced voter participation. EPICs were distributed to newly enrolled voters, followed by administration of the Voters’ Pledge.
Similarly, the day was celebrated at Sub Division Gurez under the leadership of SDM Gurez, Mukhtar Ahmad, focusing on voter awareness and democratic participation. Speakers highlighted the importance of every vote, especially among youth and first-time voters, and administered the Voters’ Pledge to reaffirm commitment to democratic values.
AT GANDERBAL: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, who is also District Election Officer administered National Voters Day pledge to participants in a ceremony held here to commemorate 16th National Voters’ Day (NVD).
Additional District Development Commissioner, Manzoor Ahmad; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Fahim Bihaqi; Assistant Commissioner Revenue, and other district and sectoral officers were present on the occasion.
Addressing the event, the DC emphasized the significance of National Voters’ Day in encouraging and facilitating new voters to participate in the democratic process.
Referring to the 16th NVD theme, “My India, My Vote” with the tagline, “Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy,” the DC said that India being the world’s largest democracy, its strength lies in the active participation of its citizens. Voting is not only a fundamental right but also a constitutional duty and one must exercise one's vote with due care diligence.
He said it is heartening to witness the enthusiasm of new voters and young citizens who are already well aware of the importance of their vote. During elections, it is our collective responsibility to analyse issues carefully, make informed choices and exercise our franchise wisely, as responsible voting leads to stronger governance and better outcomes for society.
The DC said the Election Commission of India has consistently worked to strengthen electoral awareness and transparency through initiatives such as the SVEEP programme and latest technological interventions all of which have further enhanced accessibility, transparency and public trust in the electoral process.
He congratulated all Booth Level Officers and election staff for their dedicated efforts during Lok Sabha and Assembly Elections held in 2024 as well as the revision exercise in the past year.
He also lauded the efforts of the grassroots level staff for completing Electoral roll revision exercise with proper care and within timelines.
Assistant Commissioner Revenue reflected on the historical significance of National Voters’ Day. He urged the youth to actively participate in the democratic process and use their voting power responsibly to contribute to societal progress.
The event also featured speeches by students, who underscored the importance of voting in a democracy. They encouraged the youth to recognize their role as architects of the nation’s future and highlighted the transformative power of casting a vote.
Later, a felicitation ceremony was also held during which DC felicitated the newly registered voters and handed over EPIC Cards to the new electors. He also felicitated students and BLOs and other election staff for their excellent performance throughout the year.
AT ANANTNAG: The Election Department Anantnag, in collaboration with various departments, celebrated the 16th National Voters' Day today at Government Degree College (GDC) Women's Anantnag.
This year the theme for National Voters' Day was "My India, My Vote" with a tagline of "Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy". Various speakers from different institutions highlighted the importance of voting and the electoral process, along with its legal implementation. They urged the public for mass participation in voting to elect governments focused on people's welfare.
On the occasion, colorful cultural programs on patriotism, electoral rights and local folk were presented by students.
The Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Sandeep Singh Bali, who was the Chief Guest for the function stressed the need for timely registration in the electoral list and mass participation in voting. He highlighted the constitutional importance of voting and its role in strengthening participatory democracy.
ACD, CMO, CAO, Deputy DEO, CEO, Deputy Planning Officer, faculty from the college, officials from various departments besides students and volunteers attended the function.
AT BARAMULLA: The 16th National Voters’ Day was observed with enthusiasm in Baramulla under the theme “My India, My Vote.” The programme aimed to promote electoral awareness and encourage informed participation in the democratic process, particularly among young and newly enrolled voters.
As part of the celebrations, a voters’ awareness rally was flagged off by the Assistant Commissioner Revenue Baramulla, Arshad Ahmad Khan in the presence of the Deputy District Election Officer, Baramulla, Ab Rehman Bhat and Dy Chief Education Officer, Iftakhar Ahmad from the District Election Office, Baramulla. The rally culminated at Akber Chowk, Baramulla, with students from various schools and officials participating actively.
Later, the main function was organized at the Main Meeting Hall, DC Office Baramulla, which was attended by new voters, students, and officials. On the occasion, new EPIC cards were issued to newly registered electors.
During the programme, the Voters’ Pledge was administered by the ACR to the newly enrolled voters, reaffirming their commitment to democratic values.
Earlier, quiz competitions, nukkad natak, painting, and other awareness activities were organized to sensitize students about the importance of voting.
Addressing the gathering, the Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Deputy District Election Officer (Dy DEO), and Deputy Chief Education Officer (Dy CEO) highlighted the significance of youth participation, voter awareness, and ethical voting in strengthening democracy.
Later, the ADC, ACR, Dy DEO, and Dy CEO distributed mementoes and certificates among the participants and winners of various competitions. The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony.
BUDGAM: The 16th National Voters Day was today celebrated in Budgam to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on 25th January 1950.
The theme of this year’s National Voters day is My India, My vote. The main function was held at the Sheikh-ul Alam Hall Budgam which was chaired by the District Election Officer/Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-din Bhat.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC deliberated on the importance of celebrating the National Voters Day and said, the right to vote empowers citizens to exercise his/her franchise for nation building and for making the democracy strong. He said that this day provides us an opportunity to reach out to the new voters for enrolment in electoral rolls so that they are able to take part in the Democratic process. He said that every single vote is counted and is important for the government formation.
The Deputy Commissioner lauded the tireless efforts of all Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other field functionaries for their dedicated work during the bye Assembly elections to 27-AC Budgam. He commended their unwavering commitment and zeal in ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process. Their hard work played a pivotal role in strengthening democracy at the grassroots level, he said. The DC emphasised the importance of such dedication in upholding the elections and encouraged continued excellence in future endeavors. He highlighted the significance of the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) as a vital document for ensuring voter identity and participation in the democratic process. He also stressed the importance of the Voter Information Slip, which provides key details such as polling station information and facilitates a seamless voting experience. The DC encouraged all voters to utilize these tools effectively to uphold the sanctity of elections.
On the occasion, ADC Budgam, CPO Budgam, CEO Budgam , Dy. Election officer, Dysp Hq, Officers , DIO budgam, officials from police and District administration , BLOs ,and all other participants took pledge to participate in the election process free and fairly and vowed to contribute in making the nation strong by using their franchise.
CEO Budgam, who is also nodal officer of the SVEEP addressed the audiences at the function. Speaking to participants, She said, “Right to vote is our constitutional right”. One should actively participate in the process of elections by casting their votes, thereby strengthening democracy, he added.
Similar functions were also held at Townhall Budgam, SDM offices, Tehsil Offices, PHE, Social welfare , District handicraft office, labour office, Chief Medical officers and all other offices of the District, where in Pledges were taken with regard to the celebration of 16th National Voters’ Day.
On the occasion, painting and essay competitions were also held in almost all schools of District Budgam, in which huge number of student participants were enthusiastically seen participating to celebrate National voters day. (KNS)