“Youth Voters Festival” 2023 was organized in Tseminyu Town, Noklak and Mokokchung on October 9 and October 7 respectively to promote youth participation in electoral process and to promote democracy and employment.
In Tseminyu, “Youth Voters Festival” was organised under the theme “Your Vote, Your Voice” to encourage maximum youth participation in upcoming elections, specifically the summary revision of the photo Electoral Roll in 2024 and the general election to the Lok Sabha in 2024.
Students from both government and private schools and colleges in Tseminyu district, ranging from standard VIII and above, participated in various competitions, each aligned with specific categories: Classes 8, 9, and 10 – best presentation on Naga traditional attire. Classes 11 and 12 and above – poetry recitation on the theme “Your Vote, Your Voice.”
The festival provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity, knowledge, and appreciation of Naga culture and the importance of voting in a democratic society. During the event, SVEEP campus ambassador, Runohile Keppen, and SVEEP district icon, Christine Tsela, extended felicitations to the female participants of the Girls’ Campaign 2023 under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative. This acknowledgment highlighted the significance of empowering and encouraging girls to participate actively in various aspects of life, including the electoral process.
The programme was efficiently chaired by EAC (Hq) Tseminyu, Ruokuosetuo Tetso, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by SDO (Civil) Tseminyu, Kemciyile. Noklak: The office of the DC & DEO Noklak, in collaboration with the District Hub for Empowerment of Women Noklak under the Systematic Voters’ Education & Electoral Participation (SVEEP) and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, organized the Youth Voters Festival 2023 on October 7 at St. Paul School, Noklak. The event aims to inspire and educate the youth about their crucial role in the democratic process.
According to a DIPR report, sub divisional officer (civil) Noklak, Vikhoto Richa, emphasized on the significance of the Youth Voters Festival, an initiative by the Election Commission of India (ECI). He stressed on its purpose in empowering young citizens to take responsibility and create change through their votes. Richa encouraged eligible voters to contact the Booth Level Officer (BLO) to ensure they are registered as voters and also explained the voting procedures. Richa also highlighted that this event marked the first-ever involvement of inter-school competitions under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.
Campus ambassador of GHSS Noklak, Chongphe Khiamniungan, stressed on the importance of voting as a fundamental right granted to all Indian citizens regardless of their backgrounds. She emphasized that voting is a powerful way for every individual to make their voices heard in the democratic process and encouraged the students to actively participate.
As part of the festival, students engaged in a variety of competitive activities, including penalty shootout, arm wrestling, face painting, obstacle races, and more. The programme was chaired by EAC Noklak, Kathyinla, featuring a special performance by St. Paul School Noklak. The vote of thanks was delivered by assistant programmer, Sentimeren Ao.
Mokokchung: Mokokchung celebrated Youth Voters Day 2023 at Town Hall, Mokokchung on October 7. According to DPRO report, Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer (DC & DEO), Mokokchung, Thsuvisie Phoji in his address reminded the youth that they were the agents of change in society and therefore have important role in deterring and solving corruption. He also termed them as the key constituents in ensuring peaceful co-existence in a society.
He maintained that youth have the ability to learn and adapt to environment and willing to learn to achieve their goal. Phoji further urged young participants to be wise enough in their actions, especially while casting their vote in electing their representatives reminding them that their action and participation will decide the future.
Assistant Election officer, Mokokchung, Renben Mozhui gave an awareness presentation while district mission co-ordinator, Moamenla, emphasized on importance of Mission Shakti which was a comprehensive scheme launched by Ministry of Women and Child Development in India, aimed at ensuring safety and empowerment of women across the country.
The release added that short play was presented by Demstify Institute for Montessori and Nursery Teachers Training, Mokokchung, special songs presented by Yimkumla (Jubilee College) and Supongsangla Jamir (PwD Icon), while Addl. Deputy Commissioner & SVEEP Nodal Officer, Mokokchung, Chumlamo Humtsoe, delivered the closing remarks. Demonstration of EVM & VVPAT was carried out by District Level Master Trainers followed by Signature Campaign of the participants.