KATHUA: In a concerted effort to increase electoral participation in the forthcoming Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, a voter awareness program was organized today at the Government Model Higher Secondary School in Basohli. The program featured a range of activities designed to engage students and foster a deeper understanding of the democratic process.
The event included a debate competition, group dance performances, and a poster-making competition, all centered around the theme of electoral participation. Following these activities, students, first-time voters, and adult voters took a pledge to actively participate in the upcoming elections.
The primary objective of the program was to encourage young voters, particularly those casting their ballots for the first time, to turn out in record numbers. By doing so, they can contribute to the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047.
A total of four students namely Upasna Devi (11th grade), Priya Devi (12th grade), Aditi Sharma (11th grade), and Gungun (12th grade) participated in the competition, expressing their views on voter awareness through the SVEEP (Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation) program in India.
The event also featured an interactive session with, AC Nodal Officer SVEEP 65-Basohli Dr. Roshan Lal, and Principal of Govt. Model Higher Secondary School Basohli Lalit Kumar Sharma,. They engaged with students, faculty members, BLO Supervisors, and BLOs from adjoining polling booths.
Dr. Roshan Lal highlighted the importance of student participation in educating the public about ethical and informed voting. He encouraged the students to become ambassadors of the Election Commission of India (ECI) and to ensure that every eligible voter is reached so that no one is left behind. Emphasizing the significance of every vote, he urged the participants to seize the opportunity to cast their ballots for the right candidate, noting that even a single vote can make a difference in the outcome of an election.
The program was part of District SVEEP Plan and an important step towards fostering a culture of informed and active electoral participation among the youth in Basohli and beyond.
