President Murmu : To Lead 16th National Voters Day 2026 Celebrations Nationwide
President Murmu : The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will formally inaugurate the 16th National Voters’ Day celebrations on Sunday by distributing Electors Photo Identity Cards to newly enrolled young voters. The national event highlights India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening democratic participation, particularly among first-time electors, and reinforces the role of citizens in shaping the country’s electoral future.
National Voters’ Day is observed annually to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India. Over the years, the occasion has evolved into a nationwide platform to encourage voter registration, awareness, and ethical participation in elections. The 2026 celebrations are expected to draw participation from election officials, government representatives, and citizens across the country.
Theme and Vision of National Voters’ Day 2026
This year’s National Voters’ Day is being celebrated under the theme “My India, My Vote,” with the tagline “Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy.” The theme emphasizes the central role of voters in democratic governance and underlines the importance of informed, responsible participation in elections. By focusing on citizens, the Election Commission aims to deepen public trust in electoral processes and institutions.
The theme also reflects broader efforts to promote inclusivity, transparency, and accessibility in elections, especially for young voters, women, and marginalized communities. Through awareness campaigns and outreach programs, National Voters’ Day seeks to transform voting from a civic obligation into a shared national celebration.
Dignitaries and Leadership at the Event
President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the main समारोह as the Chief Guest, lending constitutional significance to the occasion. The Guest of Honour will be Union Minister of State for Law and Justice (Independent Charge) Arjun Ram Meghwal, who represents the government’s role in supporting electoral reforms and democratic institutions.
The event will be led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi. Senior officials of the Election Commission of India will also be present, reflecting the collective leadership guiding India’s electoral management framework.
Recognition of Best Electoral Practices
One of the major highlights of National Voters’ Day 2026 will be the presentation of Best Electoral Practices Awards. President Murmu will confer these awards across multiple categories that recognize excellence and innovation in election administration. Categories include effective use of technology, election management and logistics, voter awareness initiatives, enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, and training and capacity building of election personnel.
Special awards will also be presented for outstanding contributions by media organizations and individuals who have played a significant role in promoting voter education and democratic values. These recognitions aim to motivate continuous improvement and innovation within the electoral ecosystem.
Launch of Key Publications and Visual Presentations
The celebrations will also witness the release of two important publications by the Election Commission. One publication, titled “2025: A Year of Initiatives and Innovations,” documents major reforms, technological advancements, and policy initiatives undertaken during the year. The second publication, “Chunav Ka Parv, Bihar Ka Garv,” focuses on the successful conduct of the General Elections in Bihar, showcasing best practices and operational achievements.
In addition, a specially curated video highlighting India’s global leadership in electoral management and democratic development will be screened. The presentation is intended to showcase how Indian electoral practices are being recognized and adapted internationally.
Exhibitions and Nationwide Participation
An exhibition covering various aspects of the electoral process will be organized as part of the celebrations. The exhibition will present detailed insights into the preparation of electoral rolls, conduct of elections, and recent initiatives introduced for voter convenience. It will also highlight the successful conduct of the Bihar Legislative Assembly Elections in 2025.
National Voters’ Day celebrations will be held simultaneously across all states and districts through the offices of Chief Electoral Officers and District Election Officers. At the grassroots level, Booth Level Officers will organize local events at polling stations, felicitate newly registered voters, and distribute EPIC cards, ensuring that the spirit of democracy reaches every corner of the country.