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In India, 25th January is celebrated as the National Voter’s Day every year with the purpose of spreading awareness of the voting rights. This day was first celebrated in 2011 choosing 25th January as it is the foundation day of the Election Commission. When living in a democracy, it is mandatory for people to know about their voting rights and how they contribute fundamentally to developing the nation.
Democracy means ‘of the people, for the people and by the people’ and with the same motive to encourage the young people to vote, this day came into existence. In 2020, we will be celebrating the 10th National Voters Day. Let’s take a look at the important points related to National Voters Day 2020.
History of National Voters Day
In 2011, a meeting chaired by the PM Manmohan Singh observed that the participation of young voters had declined that showed their lack of interest in enrolling as voters. To increase the same, it was proposed that the government would identify all the eligible voters attaining the age of 18 till January 1st of every year and submit the data to the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) on January 25 of that year. Hence, it was observed as the National Voters Day starting in 2011.
National Voters Day 2020: Theme of the year
The theme for the National Voters Day 2020 is “Electoral Literacy for Stronger Democracy” It has been advised to the schools and colleges to observe this day by conducting debates, mock polls, quizzes to promote awareness among the students regarding the rights possessed by them.
Significance of National Voters Day
People must know that as a citizen of India, it’s their right to vote and elect their leader. This day signifies the registration of newly eligible young voters (18+) and promotes electoral participation by people. The legal age to vote in India is 18 years but it is seen that many young people are not even aware of the democratic values and rights. To make sure, the participation of young voters increases, this day is celebrated from the past 9 years.
As far as the upcoming elections are concerned, Legislative Assembly elections in Delhi will be held on 8th February 2020 and the results for the same will declare on 11th February 2020. People will access their right to vote by choosing the Chief Minister of the National Capital.