Prime Minister Narendra Modi (File photo/PTI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended greetings to citizens on National Voters’ Day and urged people to honour the spirit of democracy by consistently participating in the electoral process, calling it essential for strengthening the resolve towards a Viksit Bharat.National Voters’ Day is observed annually on January 25 to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI), established in 1950. The day aims to recognise voters, encourage youth participation, reinforce democratic values, and promote universal adult suffrage.In a post on X, the Prime Minister said National Voters’ Day is about “further deepening our faith in the democratic values of our nation”.“My compliments to all those associated with the Election Commission of India for their efforts to strengthen our democratic processes,” he said.“Being a voter is not just a constitutional privilege, but an important duty that gives every citizen a voice in shaping India’s future. Let us honour the spirit of our democracy by always taking part in democratic processes, thereby strengthening the foundations of a Viksit Bharat,” Modi added.“To be a voter is the greatest privilege and responsibility in a democracy,” the Prime Minister said, adding that voting is a “sacred constitutional right and a mark of participation in Bharat’s future.” He described voters as the “Bhagya Vidhata of our development journey” and said the indelible ink on a voter’s finger is a “badge of honour that ensures our democracy remains vibrant and purposeful.” Union home minister Amit Shah also conveyed his wishes on the occasion through a social media post.“This day reminds us that our constitution has given every voter equal power, and the right vote can show our nation the right direction. It is our moral responsibility to safeguard our voting system and ensure that no external factor can pollute it,” Shah said.“May on this day we recommit ourselves to the pledge to align the power of our votes to build a developed and powerful India,” he added.Union minister of health and family welfare JP Nadda extended greetings to citizens, saying, “This day reminds us of the strength of our democracy and the power of every single vote. Voting is not only a democratic right but also a fundamental duty of every citizen.”“National Voters’ Day encourages greater awareness about the importance of voting and celebrates universal adult franchise, which strengthens the foundation of an inclusive and participatory democratic system,” Nadda said in a post on X.Union defence minister Rajnath Singh also marked the occasion, stating, “On National Voters Day, we reflect on the strength of India’s democracy, rooted in free, fair and inclusive elections. I commend the Election Commission of India for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of the electoral process.”“Let us inspire wider participation, especially among the youth, and uphold the power of the vote with responsibility and pride,” he added.Meanwhile, the theme for National Voters’ Day 2026 is ‘My India, My Vote’, with the tagline ‘Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy’.The Election Commission of India is the constitutional authority responsible for the supervision, direction and conduct of elections in the country. It has conducted 18 general elections and more than 400 State Legislative Assembly elections so far.The Commission also oversees elections to the Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Councils, the Union Territories of Puducherry and the National Capital Territory of Delhi, as well as elections to the offices of the President and Vice President of India. Go to Source