Sat Nov 29 15:23:34 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, followed by a brief summary:
Summary:
The Kottayam district administration is preparing for local body elections scheduled for December 9, 2025. Voting machines are being distributed to designated centers, with inspections overseen by the District Collector. Polling staff randomization is underway, and training has been completed. The district has 1,641,176 registered voters and is preparing 1925 polling booths across 1,611 wards. Authorities are emphasizing adherence to the election code of conduct and a “green code” for environmentally friendly practices.
News Article:
Kottayam Gears Up for Local Body Elections; Voting Machine Distribution Underway
KOTTAYAM, November 29, 2025 – With local body elections just days away, the Kottayam district administration has begun distributing voting machines to municipalities and block panchayats. District Collector and Election Officer Chetan Kumar Meena oversaw the process at the Ettumanoor Satram warehouse on Saturday, ensuring the safe and secure delivery of the equipment to designated strong rooms.
The distribution process is staggered, with machines destined for Ettumanur and Changanassery municipalities, as well as Vaikom, Kaduthuruthy and Pampady block panchayats, delivered on Saturday. Distribution to other areas will continue through Monday. Commissioning of the voting machines is scheduled for December 3-5 at the distribution centers. The district requires 1,925 control units and 5,775 ballot units for the elections.
Meanwhile, preparations for staffing the polling booths are also in full swing. The second phase of randomisation to determine the final list of polling staff, excluding 20% and keeping 20% as reserve, will be held on December 2. A total of 1,925 officers will be designated as presiding officer, first polling officer, second polling officer and third polling officer, with 385 officers to be included as reserve in each category. Training for polling staff concluded on Friday.
Authorities have identified 60 sensitive polling booths.
The elections, scheduled for December 9, will feature 5,281 candidates vying for positions across 1,611 wards in 89 local self-government institutions. The electorate comprises 1,641,176 registered voters, with a near-equal split between men and women, and 13 transgender voters. 1925 polling booths have been arranged for polling.
Collector Meena emphasized the importance of adhering to the election code of conduct issued by the State Election Commission, urging political parties, candidates, and the public to remain vigilant. He also called for a strong commitment to the “green code” to minimize the environmental impact of the elections.
First Piper 