The Election Commission of India (ECI) is commemorating the 13th National Voters’ Day (NVD) on 25th January 2023. This event is noteworthy as it serves as an instrument to encourage, facilitate, and maximize enrolment, particularly for new voters. The celebration, which has been held annually since 2011 in every corner of the country, corresponds with the foundation anniversary of the Election Commission of India on 25th January 1950. The National Voters’ Day not only motivates the younger demographic to participate in the electoral process but also emphasizes that voting is a fundamental right. Furthermore, NVD plays a critical role in shaping India’s future, as the leaders chosen today will lead the country tomorrow.
Theme and Awards for NVD 2023
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure”. This slogan underlines the importance of exercising one’s right to vote as an integral part of a democratic society. In addition, the ECI also presented the National Awards for the Best Electoral Practices during the NVD 2023. These awards were given to State and District level officers who performed exceptionally well while overseeing the elections throughout the year 2022.
An Overview of the Election Commission of India
Established on 25th January 1950, the Election Commission of India is an autonomous constitutional authority tasked with managing Union and State election processes nationwide. The organisation conducts elections for Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
Structural Composition of the ECI
Initially, the Election Commission of India was a single-member body, with only one election commissioner at the helm. However, following the Election Commissioner Amendment Act 1989, it has evolved into a multi-member body. At present, the commission is comprised of one Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners (ECs). All operations are managed from their secretariat based in New Delhi.
Insights from UPSC Civil Services Examination
In conjunction with the importance of understanding the election process in India, previous year’s questions from the UPSC Civil Services Examination can provide valuable insights. For instance, a question from the 2017 examination asked: “Right to vote and to be elected in India is a…” The correct answer was a Constitutional Right. Similarly, a question from the 2011 examination asked: “Under the Constitution of India, which one of the following is not a Fundamental Duty?” The right answer was ‘To vote in public elections.’ These questions underscore how crucial it is for every citizen to understand their democratic rights and duties regarding the electoral process.