Shillong: A state level training for poll volunteers , matdata mitras or election friends was held on Wednesday at Meghalaya Bharat Scouts and Guides headquarters in the city. 500 volunteers drawn from leading youth organisations like Bharat Scouts/ Guides, NSS and NYK participated.
The programme of engaging youths as poll volunteers is a wonderful way to actively engage and connect with young and future voters so that they can contribute in the electoral process. The session was anchored by Josh Talks , a media company, which included quizzes,electoral exercises with a focus on the role of the poll volunteers on the actual polling day. The youths were also introduced to the origin of democracy and constitutional principles followed by their role as facilitators for people with disabilities, aged and infirm.
CEO FR Kharkongor in his inaugural address highlighted that this was the very first time that poll volunteers were deployed for active duty in the 3167 polling station on poll day. He also urged them to effectively ensure that no voter is left behind.
The second state level training programme for poll volunteers will be held at Tura on April 5. A voter connect programme will also be held on April 9 along with Shillong talks programme.
