District Collectors wrap up first phase of training for upcoming lok sabha elections

Team Udayavani, Feb 3, 2024, 11:09 AM IST

As the Lok Sabha elections approach, District Collectors across the country have completed the first phase of special training, highlighting the growing importance of administrative preparations.

The comprehensive training program aims to equip District Collectors with the necessary skills and knowledge for efficient coordination during the upcoming elections. Initial training at both the state and district levels has covered various aspects, including police security, to ensure seamless preparation.

In a significant step, “Sector Officers” at polling booths have undergone preliminary training provided by “Master Trainers” in all districts. These officers, responsible for approximately 10 booths each, have received an introduction to booth-level preparations and have been provided with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Awareness measures for the officers have been outlined, emphasizing the importance of their roles.

The next phase of training, focusing on booth preparation and execution, is expected to take place in the coming days. Additionally, training sessions will be conducted for teachers working in the polling booths.

The procurement process for essential materials required for polling booths, vote counting, printing of election-related forms, and videography has commenced, with tender calls initiated in various districts. Tenders for providing tea and snacks on assembly days, demustering days, and voting-vote counting days are also underway.

Ensuring the readiness of voting machines, the Election Commission has dispatched new machines to various districts since October. According to Dakshina Kannada Additional DC Dr. Santosh Kumar, the machines have undergone verification and are securely stored in the district.

With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the transfer session of government officials across the state has begun in compliance with the directives of the Election Commission. Transfers within various official sectors, including District Administration and the Police Department, are underway to streamline the election process.

Mullai Muhilan, District Collector of Dakshina Kannada, highlighted the commencement of the first phase of preparations, emphasizing the step-by-step approach taken in training and preparing for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.