Media Release

Udupi, Apr 5: In a concerted effort to bolster voter awareness and promote civic participation, the Election Commission of India, in collaboration with the Udupi District Administration, Sweep Committee, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens, Udupi District, joined hands with Asare Special School and Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, to conduct a comprehensive election and voter awareness programme.

Prateek Bayal, CEO of Udupi Zilla Panchayath was the chief guest of the programme, he emphasized that voting is not merely a right but a responsibility, essential for the selection of competent representatives. He said that polling holiday is not for fun and enjoyment, make utilise of this and vote. Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, commended the district administration's proactive efforts in fostering voter awareness, acknowledging the pivotal role such initiatives play in strengthening democracy.

The programme featured a cultural extravaganza with a captivating Yakshagana performance aimed at elucidating the importance of voting. Rathna Suvarna, an officer from the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens Department, and Anuradha from the Sweep Committee, were among the distinguished guests in attendance. Students of special school were present in the program with an election awareness poster.

Under the guidance of Shivaji, project officer, Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens, attendees solemnly took an oath to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. Mohan Shetty, marketing manager of Kasturba Hospital, welcomed the gathering, Jai Vitall, president of Asare, proposed vote of thanks, Ramesh Nayak, teacher was the emcee for the programme.