Yuva Shakti: Mobilizing the Youth Towards the Ballot
The central government, under the leadership of the Ministry of Education, inaugurated the #MeraPehlaVoteDeshKeLiye campaign on February 27. This campaign marks a significant effort to enhance voter turnout among young people and first-time voters. Its nationwide reach aims to inspire youth to actively engage in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, emphasizing the significant role of voting in fortifying democracy. Scheduled to run until March 6, the campaign seeks to empower young individuals by underlining the importance of their vote.
Prime Minister Modi, on February 27, issued a clarion call for a more inclusive electoral process. He stressed the significance of the #MeraPehlaVoteDeshKeLiye Campaign, particularly with 1.85 crore first-time voters expected to take part in the democratic process. In the 110th episode of “Mann Ki Baat,” Prime Minister Modi highlighted that first-time voters incorporate the ‘yuva shakti’ of our democracy. He emphasized that India takes pride in its youth power, full of enthusiasm and energy. The greater the youth participation in the electoral process, the more beneficial its outcomes will be for the nation, he emphasized. He also highlighted the symbolism of the 18th Lok Sabha, reflecting the aspirations of the youth, and stressed on the importance of their vote.
Universities and colleges nationwide have dedicated assigned spaces to host voter awareness campaigns. These events encompass various activities including blog competitions, podcasts, debates, essay contests, quizzes, impromptu performances, battle of the bands, and recorded activities available on the My Government portal.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan mandated all higher education institutions in the country to conduct comprehensive voter awareness activities from February 28 to March 6. Interactive workshops and seminars will underscore the importance of voting and understanding the election process. Students will be encouraged to take the voter’s pledge through the official website. The campaign’s objectives extend beyond boosting voter turnout; it aims to educate the next generation on making informed decisions and feeling empowered by their voting powers.
The NSS and its volunteers will run the programme in educational institutions, with activities logged on the ‘My Gov’ portal for further distribution. Educational institution clubs will also take part in the campaign.
The number of electors in the 18-19 age group has significantly increased since 2019, from 1.5 crore to 1.85 crore in 2024. The steps taken by the central government will ensure that first-time voters are well-informed, thereby enhancing their decision-making abilities. The government’s creation of anthems and hashtags for this campaign has effectively captured the attention of the youth, resulting in increased awareness of the upcoming elections within five days of its launch.
Through this initiative, young adults will attain a comprehensive understanding of our democracy and the electoral process, leading to a more informed electorate. The campaign embodies the value of elections and the pride of voting in the world’s largest democracy.
Youth can register to participate in Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye events through the official website (https://pledge.mygov.in/). Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Anurag Thakur, has played a crucial role by sharing the #MeraPehlaVoteDeshKeLiye anthem, further encouraging the nation’s youth voters. Strategically leveraging social media and digital platforms is crucial for expanding the reach of the campaign, as it directly engages with young voters, promoting meaningful interactions.
The new campaign has brought a sense of excitement among the youth, promoting their participation in the voting process by simplifying and making it more accessible online. In the 2019 elections, out of 90 electors, 30 did not cast their votes. This campaign aims to increase participation and awareness, ensuring no voter is left behind and that they are aware of their power.
Renowned celebrities such as Kiran Kher, Kuldeep Yadav, and Pankaj Advani have extended their support to the campaign, encouraging the youth to acknowledge the significance of their votes and participate wholeheartedly in the electoral process.
The Prime Minister, during the launch of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth’ on December 11, addressed Vice Chancellors of universities, heads of institutions, and faculty members, emphasizing the role the Amrit generation will play in shaping the developed India till 2047 during the next 25 years or Amrit Kaal in every sector.
This initiative taken by the central government is praise worthy. It empowers voters and ensures that no one is left behind. The younger generation of voters is intelligent and capable of making decisions, and this campaign will help them better grasp the election process.
The world keeps an eye on the subcontinent as millions of people mobilize towards the polling booth to reiterate the meaning of democracy. The campaign #MeraPehlaVoteDeshKeLiye is nothing but a testament of our commitment towards the largest democracy.
