SAMBA: In a significant initiative to strengthen youth-led democratic participation, MY Bharat Jammu, in collaboration with Nations Development Association (NDA) a Non-Governmental Organization registered with NITI Aayog and affiliated with MY Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India organized a grand District-Level National Voter’s Day Padyatra at the Auditorium Shri Sankruti, The Shri Ram Universal School, on the inspiring theme “MY Bharat, MY Vote.”
The programme aimed to motivate new and first-time voters to actively participate in the electoral process and to recognize voting as a fundamental democratic duty. The event was organized in alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Janbhagidari Se Rashtranirman” (Nation-building through people’s participation), emphasizing inclusive and participatory democracy.
The event was graced by Assistant Commissioner Development, Samba, Mr. Rafiq Ahmad Jaral, JKAS, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering on the occasion of National Voter’s Day, Mr. Jaral highlighted the importance of informed, ethical, and responsible voting. He urged young citizens to exercise their franchise conscientiously to strengthen democratic institutions and contribute to good governance.
The programme was presided over by Mr. Sushil Singh Charak, Chief Functionary, Nations Development Association (NDA), who appreciated the “MY Bharat, MY Vote” initiative and described it as a commendable step by the Government of India to honour and encourage first-time voters. He emphasized that youth participation is the backbone of a strong and vibrant democracy.
Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, Chairman, The Shri Ram Universal School, Jammu, also addressed the participants and stated that voting is not only a constitutional right but also a civic responsibility. He observed that voter awareness initiatives of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India play a crucial role in nurturing democratic values among students and young citizens.
Hundreds of MY Bharat volunteers, youth club members, students, civil society representatives, and young citizens participated enthusiastically in the padyatra, turning the surroundings into a vibrant expression of democratic awareness. The rally commenced from the Auditorium Shri Sankruti, The Shri Ram Universal School, and echoed with spirited slogans of “MY Bharat, MY Vote,” spreading the message of voter registration, awareness, and active participation among the public.
The programme began with the administration of the National Voter’s Day Pledge, reaffirming the collective commitment to uphold democratic values and ensure maximum participation of first-time voters in upcoming elections. A special highlight of the event was the felicitation of first-time voters, who were honoured with voter awareness badges and sweets, symbolizing their formal entry into the democratic process.
Those present on the occasion included Ms. Rajni Gupta, Ms. Sonika Mahajan, Ms. Shivani Vaid Sharma, Mr. Shubham Singh Manhas, NDA District President Samba Mr. Happy Sharma, NDA District President Jammu Mr. Aakash Singh Charak, Mr. Amit Singh Bagal, along with other dignitaries and MY Bharat volunteers.
The programme concluded with a renewed resolve by all participants to ensure that every eligible young citizen registers, votes, and inspires others, truly embodying the spirit of “MY Bharat, MY Vote” and “Janbhagidari Se Rashtranirman.”
MY Bharat Jammu / Samba reaffirmed its commitment to empowering youth and strengthening India’s democratic foundation through sustained voter awareness and civic engagement initiatives.
Ms. Shivani Vaid Sharma Chief Women Wing NDA resented the Vote of Thanks, expressing sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, organizers, MY Bharat volunteers, and participants for their valuable support and enthusiastic participation, which made the District-Level National Voter’s Day Padyatra a successful and meaningful initiative.
