Fri Nov 21 15:14:29 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
Headline: Visually Impaired Voters in Kerala to Receive Training for Independent Voting
Kozhikode, India – November 21, 2025 – In a groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Social Justice and the Kerala Federation of the Blind (KFB) are partnering to empower visually impaired voters in Kerala to cast their ballots independently. The program provides scientific training on using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) without relying on proxy voters.
The initiative, launched in Kozhikode, includes a team of 30 trained volunteers assisting visually impaired voters. The KFB sought the training for its members, many of whom are highly educated and eager to exercise their voting rights independently.
KFB members are actively using WhatsApp and Instagram to facilitate online training sessions. A master training session was held on November 19, which inspired members to prepare and circulate voice messages to expand the reach of the programme.
S. Noushad, district president of the KFB, stated that 375 members in Kozhikode district are ready for virtual training, leveraging smartphone voice assistance to follow lessons and participate in live demonstrations. He added that independent voting in upcoming local elections will be a proud moment for many.
While current EVMs have Braille markings, the KFB is advocating for additional features, such as easier candidate identification, as machines currently provide only a beep to confirm votes. This demand is yet to be formally presented to election authorities. The KFB hopes future voting machine designs will better cater to the needs of visually impaired individuals nationwide.
The Hindu
November 21, 2025
First Piper 