Rajasthan Elections 2023: Bhilwara Takes to Digital Mode to Revolutionize Electoral Practices

Bhilwara- In a transformative leap towards modernizing electoral practices, Bhilwara is emerging as a trailblazer by embracing a digital revolution in the lead-up to the Assembly Election of 2023. Under the leadership of Collector Ashish Modi, the district is leveraging cutting-edge Information Technology (IT) initiatives to redefine and enhance the entire democratic process.

Modi shared with The Mooknayak, a series of ground breaking measures that have been implemented to streamline and enhance the electoral experience for all stakeholders involved.

Major IT Initiatives:

1. SAHAJ Application: The SAHAJ application stands as a comprehensive solution designed to monitor the entire process of Home voting. From the initiation of forms by Booth Level Officers (BLO) to the acceptance/rejection by Returning Officers (RO) and real-time progress tracking of voting, SAHAJ ensures transparency and efficiency. Notably, the application incorporates GPS tracking for form submissions, casting votes, and captures photographs, providing a robust platform for 'Absentee Voters,' particularly senior citizens (80+) and People with Disabilities (PwD).

2. SAKAL (Voting Report) Application: SAKAL, the Voting Report application, plays a pivotal role in capturing and reporting voting percentages at polling stations in real-time. This data is updated every two hours throughout the polling day, enabling prompt reporting to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Election Department in Jaipur. The application is not only a tool for data collection but also facilitates targeted Booth Level Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities to bolster voter turnout in areas with historically low participation.

3. SUGAM (Ease of Attendance) Application: Addressing the crucial aspect of polling party attendance, the SUGAM application introduces efficiency in capturing attendance through IT. By uploading the list of polling parties after the third randomization, the application ensures seamless communication and coordination. Real-time reports on absent or missing personnel on the day of departure eliminate the risk of unattended issues. The application also provides a synchronized approach to attendance-taking personnel, simplifying the overall process.

   a. Real-time generation of reports: Ensures prompt identification of absent or missing personnel.

   b. Synchronization: Facilitates coordination among various personnel involved in attendance monitoring.

4. SAMPARK (Booth Level Communication Plan) Application: SAMPARK, the Booth Level Communication Plan application, focuses on enhancing communication among all stakeholders at the Polling Station level. By providing details such as names, designations, and mobile numbers of officers and personnel associated with polling stations, the application promotes smooth and efficient communication. Stakeholders include BLOs, Sector Officers, Patwaris, Beat Constables, SHOs, BDOs, Tehsildars, web-casting officers, SDMs, ROs, DEOs, and SPs. This initiative ensures a well-connected electoral ecosystem.

Collector Ashish Modi said," Bhilwara has become a crucible of innovation, embracing digital solutions to address key challenges in the electoral process. From real-time monitoring of home voting to streamlined attendance tracking of polling parties, these initiatives signify a bold leap into the future of electoral administration, promising an election process characterized by seamless efficiency and enhanced stakeholder engagement."

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