Lok Sabha polls: DEO Ganderbal discusses preparedness with Nodal Officers

Ganderbal, Apr 24: In preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the District Election Officer (DEO) Ganderbal, Shyambir Wednesday conducted a detailed meeting with designated Nodal Officers to review and strengthen the district’s election readiness.
During the meeting, Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) and Nodal Officers updated the DEO on the current status of preparations, including logistics, transportation of polling staff and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), voter education, and facilities at polling stations.
Specific focus was placed on manpower, training management, expenditure monitoring, and the arrangement at Dispatch and Reception centers, among others.
The DEO emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to the Election Commission of India’s guidelines and took a first-hand appraisal of various critical aspects and activities necessary for the smooth conduct of the elections.
He directed the Nodal Officer for AMF/CEO to ensure Assured Minimum Facilities at all polling booths to accommodate electorates, polling staff, and security personnel effectively.
A special focus was put on enhancing Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities.
The Nodal Officer for SVEEP was tasked with expanding outreach through collaboration with Self-Help Groups, ASHAs, and Anganwadi Workers to ensure ground-level communication is effective.
College HODs were urged to engage students and staff in innovative activities under the SVEEP to boost voter awareness and participation.
The DEO also instructed all officers to ensure that all logistical and operational plans are in place to facilitate electorates, polling staff and the security personnel deployed for electoral duties on the Election Day.
He stressed the need for all designated Nodal officers to maintain close cooperation and coordination with executing departments to ensure a transparent and peaceful election.
The meeting saw the attendance of SSP Ganderbal, Sandeep Gupta; Additional District Development Commissioner, Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Gulzar Ahmad; Dy DEO, ACR, SDM Kangan, and other key district officers and officials, all committed to delivering a free and fair electoral process.