New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) reaffirmed its dedication to electoral integrity and transparency as it welcomed 75 delegates from 23 countries to participate in the International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) in New Delhi.
The event, graced by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, underscored India’s pivotal role in the global democratic landscape.
Rajiv Kumar emphasized the significance of India’s electoral processes, noting its contribution to the preservation of democratic values amidst global challenges. He highlighted India’s unique electoral system, emphasizing the voluntary nature of voter registration and participation, which underscores the persuasive approach of the ECI in engaging citizens.
Addressing the scale of the Indian elections, Kumar outlined the monumental task of managing a 970 million-strong electorate, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of India’s democracy. He invited the delegates to experience firsthand the festival of democracy that unfolds across the nation during elections.
In addition to the inauguration, bilateral interactions were held with Chief Election Commissioners from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Nepal, facilitating the exchange of insights and best practices in electoral management.
Earlier sessions provided delegates with comprehensive briefings on various facets of Indian General Elections 2024, including the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), IT initiatives, and the role of media and social media platforms in the electoral process.
The programme will see delegates split into groups to visit six states—Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh—to observe polling and related preparedness, offering a firsthand understanding of India’s electoral system and best practices.
This year’s IEVP features the largest-ever delegation, with representatives from countries such as Bhutan, Mongolia, Australia, Madagascar, and Fiji, among others. Additionally, members from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and media teams from Bhutan and Israel are participating.