SHIMLA,25 January, 2025-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla graced the 15^th National Voters Day State-Level function held here today at the historic Gaiety Theatre. The event, organized by the Himachal Pradesh Election Department, celebrated the theme, "Nothing like voting, I vote for sure," emphasizing the importance of electoral participation.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor applauded the Election Commission of India (ECI) for its global recognition in conducting free, fair and transparent elections. He commended the Commission and its team for strengthening democratic values and setting an example worldwide.

The Governor congratulated first-time voters and urged them to create awareness about the significance of voting among their peers. He acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including administrative officials, law enforcement, NGOs and media, in ensuring smooth and inclusive elections.

Shri Shukla highlighted ECI's establishment on January 25, 1950, as a pivotal step in India's democratic journey. He emphasized the responsibility of every voter to uphold democracy by exercising their franchise, calling it the foundation of the nation's future.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Nandita Gupta noted that Himachal Pradesh had recorded a total of 56,62,423 registered voters, including 1,33,407 young voters in the 18–19 age group, as per the latest voter roll update. She also shared the achievements of the Election Department in conducting a successful voter enrollment drive and Lok Sabha elections in 2024, which witnessed a voter turnout of 71.45 per cent.

During the event, the Governor presented Election Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) to new voters and honored senior citizens, specially-abled voters and outstanding officials, including booth-level officers, for their exemplary service. The recipients of the national awards for exceptional performance during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, including the Deputy Commissioners of Bilaspur and Lahaul-Spiti, were also recognized.

The celebration featured a video message from India’s Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar and cultural performances, including a skit by the Beginner Group and folk dances by the Dharohar Dance Group.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Deputy Commissioner Shimla and District Election Officer, Anupam Kashyap and a collective pledge administered by the Governor to promote active voting participation.

C.P. Verma, Secretary to Governor, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dilip Negi and Neelam Dulta, Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.