Page 101 - General Election

A pledge, which has gained popularity among young voters has been integral in changing the
attitude of young India towards elections.

“We, the citizens of India, having abiding faith in democracy, hereby pledge to
uphold the democratic traditions of our country and the dignity of free, fair and
peaceful elections, and to vote in every election fearlessly and without being

influenced by considerations of religion, race, caste, community, language or
any inducement.”

1. SVEEP I (2009-2013):

Initiation: Started as an experimental initiative under the IEC (Information, Education, and

Communication) activities in 2009.

Revamping: Renamed and revamped as VEEP (Voter Education and Electoral Participation),
eventually adding ‘Systematic’ to the name in 2010, taking its present name, SVEEP.

Duration: The first phase extended from 2009 to 2013.

Coverage: Encompassed elections to the Legislative Assemblies of 21 States and 2 Union
Territories, spanning from Jharkhand in 2009 to Rajasthan in 2013.

2. SVEEP II (2013 - 2016):

Continuation: Built on the foundation of SVEEP I, with a focus on addressing gaps in voter
education and participation.

Strategic Approach: Implemented a structured framework involving situation analysis, planning,
implementation, review, and regular evaluation at the polling station level.

Content Development: Created educational content for neo-literate and non-literate groups.

Major Focus: Improving facilities at polling stations and on the polling day.

Landmark Event: Significantly contributed to the Lok Sabha Elections in 2014.

Coverage: Extended to cover ten General Elections to State Assemblies.

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