Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi urges youth to register as voters on turning 18, says it will 'strengthen democracy'
New Delhi, Jan 25
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the youth of the nation to register as voters when they turn 18, thereby strengthening India's democracy and fulfilling their constitutional duty as citizens.
Addressing the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme, 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi said, "Tomorrow, on January 26, we will celebrate our Republic Day. On this day, our Constitution came into force. This day gives us an opportunity to pay homage to the architects of the Constitution."
While noting that January 25, Sunday, is also an "important day", he said, "Today is the National Voters' Day. The voter is the soul of democracy. Generally, when someone turns 18, they become a voter; it is considered an ordinary stage in a person's life. However, this occasion is a very big milestone in an Indian's life. Hence, it is very important that we celebrate becoming a voter in the country."
"Just like we convey our best wishes on birthdays and celebrate them, similarly, whenever a young person becomes a voter for the first time, the entire neighbourhood, village or city should come together and congratulate him and distribute sweets. This will increase awareness about voting among people. Additionally, this will further strengthen the feeling of how important it is to be a voter," he said, addressing the first Mann Ki Baat episode of the year.
The Prime Minister also appreciated all those people who "remain connected" with the electoral process in the country and those who "work at the grassroots level to keep our democracy alive".
On National Voters' Day, urging youngsters to register themselves as a voter upon turning 18, PM Modi said, "The sense of duty that the Constitution expects from every citizen will be fulfilled, and it will also strengthen India's democracy."
Earlier in the day, PM Modi penned a letter to MY-Bharat volunteers and young people across India, urging them to celebrate the moment they become voters.
He said that to be a voter is the "greatest privilege and responsibility" in a democratic nation and urged educational institutions across the nation to celebrate when their students become voters.
The Prime Minister said that the new generation actively participates in making things happen with a 'Can Do' spirit and called on the youth to spread awareness about the importance of becoming a voter.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Absolutely agree with PM Modi. Voting is not just a right, it's a duty. We celebrate so many things, why not this? My younger brother just got his voter ID and we did distribute sweets in the colony. It created a positive buzz and several other parents asked about the process for their kids.
The sentiment is good, but the focus should also be on making the voting process easier and more accessible. Many students move cities for studies and face issues with address proof. Celebrating is fine, but fixing the logistical hurdles in voter registration is more important.
Mann Ki Baat always has positive messages. Engaging the youth is crucial. I hope schools and colleges take this up seriously and organize voter awareness camps. The 'Can Do' spirit of the new generation is real – we just need the right guidance and platforms.
As someone who has observed Indian democracy, this is a fantastic way to instill civic responsibility from a young age. Celebrating it like a birthday is a culturally resonant idea. Strong democracies need engaged, informed young voters.
My didi always says, "Your vote is your voice." I'm 17 and waiting eagerly for next year! Hope my school does something special. This message coming from the PM on Republic Day eve makes it even more significant. Jai Hind!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.