Voting is the central pillar of any functioning democracy and India has adopted the principles of Universal Adult Franchise since 1951. The National Voters' Day was initiated in 2011 to commemorate the foundation day of Election Commission of India on 25th January 1950, with an aim to raise awareness, maximize enrolment of new voters, encourage and facilitate the young voters to participate in electoral process. V. Shashank Shekhar IAS, Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland said this while giving the perspective and introductory remarks during the 12^th National Voters' Day 2022 on 25^th January 2022 with the theme "Making elections inclusive, accessible and participative." The CEO also expressed hope that every citizen will make efforts to strengthen the electoral process.

Gregory Thejawelie, Deputy Commissioner, Kohima welcomed all the HoDs, AHoDs, CSOs and Political Parties who attended the programme. Speeches were delivered by State SVEEP Icon, Kawimaningsiliu, Miss Nagaland and State SVEEP Icon for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), Ashe H. Kiba. Special number was presented by Merry Jamir and presentation of awards (Kohima district) for Best Booth Level Officer and Online Poster with Slogan Writing competition were part of the programme. Voters' Pledge was administered by the CEO, Nagaland.

Kohima District Award winners

1.         Best Booth Level Officer (BLO)

2.         Online Poster with Slogan writing competition on the theme "My Vote is my Right-The Value of Vote" for Electoral Literacy Clubs (ELCs)

1^st prize            - Mr. Supolepdom Kichu, Class 12. Mezhur Higher Sec School

2^nd prize           - Ms Keneino Thorie, Grade XI A, Northfield School

3^rd prize           - Mr. Imsuakum, Fernwood School

                                                                                                (Khekiye, IA Kohima)