New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to the nation via his radio program Mann Ki Baat on Sunday urged the youth of the nation to register themselves as voters and exercise their franchise, as the 2019 general elections inch closer.

“With the Lok Sabha elections in 2019, it would be the first time that the youth of the 21st century will get a chance to vote and be an important part of the democratic process,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister also spoke about National Voters’ Day and lauded the efforts of the Election Commission of India. He mentioned the hard work put in by the election officials to conduct the polls and strengthening the nation’s democracy.

Modi also appreciated the state poll bodies and the security forces who work relentlessly to ensure safe and fair polling. 

Modi also said that there is no stone left unturned to ensure that everyone who has registered to vote gets the chance to exercise their rights. 

The theme of this year’s National Voters’ Day (NVD), observed on January 25, was ‘No voter to be left behind’. It was celebrated at more than six lakh locations covering around 10 lakh polling stations across the country. New voters were felicitated and handed over their EPIC (Elector Photo Identity Card) at the NVD function.

The main purpose of the NVD celebration was to encourage, facilitate and maximise the enrolment, especially for the new voters. Dedicated to the voters of the country, the day was utilised to spread awareness among voters for promoting informed participation in the electoral process.