PIB Summary- 5th May, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Largest ever global delegation to witness India’s General Election

International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP):

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) inaugurated the IEVP in New Delhi with 75 delegates from 23 countries.
• The event aimed to promote transparency and uphold high electoral standards globally.

Insights from Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar:

• Shri Rajiv Kumar highlighted India’s significant contribution to global democracy.
• He emphasized the unique features of Indian elections, such as voluntary registration and voting.
• The credibility of Indian electoral processes is evidenced by high voter turnout and widespread registration.

Scale and Diversity of Indian General Elections:

• Over 970 million voters will be facilitated by 15 million polling personnel across 1 million Polling Stations.
• The delegates were invited to witness the diverse expressions of India’s electorate.
• The event aimed to immerse foreign delegates in the “festival of democracy” firsthand.

Bilateral Interactions and Briefing Sessions:

• The ECI engaged in bilateral discussions with Chief Election Commissioners of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Nepal.
• Delegates were briefed on various aspects of Indian elections, including EVM-VVPAT, IT initiatives, and media roles.
• Sessions provided insights into India’s electoral system and best practices for foreign Election Management Bodies (EMBs).

Observational Visits and Program Conclusion:

• Delegates will visit six states to observe polling and preparedness in diverse constituencies.
• The IEVP will conclude on May 9, 2024, aiming to familiarize foreign EMB delegates with India’s electoral system and practices.
• The largest-ever delegation from 23 countries and organizations is participating in the event, reflecting its global significance.