16th National Voters’ Day celebrated across Nagaland

The 16th National Voters’ Day (NVD) was celebrated across Nagaland on January 25, 2026, under the theme “My India, My Vote”.
According to DIPR report, programmes were held at the state and district levels to reaffirm democratic values, encourage voter participation, and felicitate outstanding Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and first-time voters.
Kohima: The state-level programme was held at Hotel Japfu, Kohima, with Abhijit Sinha, principal secretary, Home Department, as special guest. He reminded citizens of their responsibility in a democracy and urged eligible voters, especially youth, to actively participate in elections. He emphasised free and fair voting without fear or inducement and encouraged young voters to act as ambassadors of democracy.
Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, in his welcome address, said every vote and voice matters in shaping the future. A message from Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland, Bhagyashree Banayat, highlighted the significance of NVD since its inception in 2011.
A video message from the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Gyanesh Kumar, was also played, highlighting the role of voters, especially youth, and the importance of being informed about the electoral process.
During the programme, awards and felicitations were presented to outstanding Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and first-time voters. The State Award for Best BLO was conferred on Sentitula, Primary Teacher and BLO of PS No. 5, Alongmen Ward, 25-Mongya Assembly Constituency, in recognition of her dedication and sincere service since her appointment in 2010.
The State Award for Best Campus Ambassador was awarded to H. Longching of Yingli Government College, Longleng, for his role in promoting electoral awareness and voter enrolment.
Based on performance during the Continuous Updation of Electoral Rolls, 2025, several BLOs under Kohima district were selected as the Best BLOs of their respective Assembly Constituencies. These included Dievizoto Punyu, Velhukholu, Menuotuonuo Rutsa, Mhasivotuo Kerhuo, Khozo Yhoshu and Kekuvil Pucho.
A total of 12 new young voters were also felicitated during the programme. The National Voters’ Day Pledge was administered by Abhijit Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary, Home Department.
The programme also featured a special musical performance by Sunep Lemtur, State SVEEP Icon, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by R. Mhathung, Joint Chief Electoral Officer, followed by the playing of the National Anthem.
Mokokchung: At Mokokchung, the programme was held at the DC Conference Hall, organised by the District Election Office in collaboration with My Bharat Mokokchung. Guest of honour, Atsungba Walling, ADC, underscored the importance of voter awareness and registration. Newly enrolled voters and Best BLOs were felicitated. The event featured student perspectives on responsible voting and concluded with the National Voters’ Pledge.
Tuensang: Tuensang district celebrated NVD at the DC’s Conference Hall, organised by the District Election Office in collaboration with Mera Yuve Bharat and the department of Social Welfare. DC Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa exhorted first-time voters to value their vote and highlighted the option of NOTA. BLOs were felicitated, and youth were encouraged to register upon attaining voting age. The programme included speeches, cultural presentations, and the administration of the Voters’ Pledge.
Tseminyu: At Tseminyu, the programme was held at the DC’s Conference Hall. Best BLO of 12 A/C Tseminyu was awarded to Sogwalo Magh of Polling Station 8-Tesophenyu (Middle). Newly registered voters received voter cards. ADC & ERO Mhomo Tungoe delivered the welcome address, while EAC & AEO Molosangla Ozukum chaired the programme and administered the pledge.
Mon: Mon district observed NVD at the DC’s Conference Hall with the slogan “Indian Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy.” ADC Pakon Phom highlighted the importance of encouraging new voters and promoting ethical voting. EPIC cards were distributed to new voters, and Best BLOs from various Assembly Constituencies were felicitated. The programme featured prayers, special songs, and the administration of the Voters’ Pledge.