New Delhi, May 14, 2025 — In a significant step towards strengthening India’s democratic processes at the grassroots level, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched a comprehensive capacity-building programme for a fresh batch of field-level electoral officers. The initiative, inaugurated by Chief Election Commissioner Shri Gyanesh Kumar at the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), brings together 371 dedicated officials from Bihar, Haryana, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
This two-day training marks another stride in the ECI’s ongoing commitment to equip Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Supervisors, and Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. Among the participants are 306 BLOs from Bihar, 30 officers from Haryana, and 35 from Delhi, all of whom will return to their regions not just as trained professionals but as trainers for their peers.
In his address, Shri Gyanesh Kumar emphasized the importance of BLOs in the electoral process, noting that they will soon be issued official identity cards to support their duties during door-to-door verification efforts. He reminded the participants of the need to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and in accordance with the Representation of the People Act and related election laws.
The training aims to provide practical insights into key electoral procedures, including voter registration, handling of forms, and the appeal process concerning electoral rolls. Notably, no appeals were filed from the three participating regions following the recent Special Summary Revision exercise—a sign of growing efficiency and trust in the process.
The curriculum, thoughtfully designed, includes interactive sessions, real-life case studies, and simulations of house-to-house surveys. Participants will also receive hands-on training in using digital tools like the Voter Helpline App and learn about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and VVPAT systems through demonstrations and mock polls.
This initiative is more than just a training—it is a reflection of the ECI’s deep-rooted belief in empowering the unsung heroes of Indian elections. Through such programmes, the Commission continues to build a stronger, more inclusive electoral system, ensuring that every vote is counted and every voter is heard.
