Sat Jan 25 21:30:37 UTC 2025: ## Jharkhand Wins National Award for Best Election Performance
**New Delhi, January 26, 2025** – Jharkhand has been awarded the National Award for “Best Performing State” in elections for the first time, recognizing its exemplary conduct of the 2024 Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. The award was presented to Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) K. Ravi Kumar by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony in New Delhi on Saturday.
Mr. Kumar attributed the success to the collaborative efforts of voters, election officials, security personnel, political parties, and the media. He highlighted several innovative initiatives implemented during the elections, including:
* **Voter list improvements:** A comprehensive drive to create an integrated, inclusive, and error-free voter list, involving multiple verifications and house-to-house visits. Special campaigns targeted Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
* **Enhanced polling station facilities:** Ensuring minimum facilities like electricity, water, toilets, wheelchairs, and ramps at all polling stations to accommodate voters with disabilities and senior citizens. Remote areas received newly constructed polling stations and transportation assistance.
* **Improved voting process:** A vehicle management system ensured smooth traffic flow during the elections. Over 120,000 volunteers facilitated queue management and assisted elderly and disabled voters.
* **Enhanced security and transparency:** CCTV cameras and webcasting monitored polling booths, ensuring peaceful and transparent voting, even in Maoist-affected areas.
* **Voter awareness campaigns:** Large-scale awareness campaigns using hashtags, media outreach, and the Election Commission’s SVEEP initiative significantly boosted voter turnout, resulting in record-high participation in both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
The award marks a significant achievement for Jharkhand, showcasing its commitment to free, fair, and peaceful elections.
First Piper 