PM Calls Voting a Sacred Duty, Hails Youth and Women as Pillars of Democracy
January 25, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to actively participate in democratic processes, saying that being a voter is not just a constitutional privilege but a vital duty that shapes India’s future. In a letter to MY-Bharat volunteers on National Voters’ Day, he described voters as the “Bhagya Vidhata” of the nation’s development journey, calling the indelible ink on a voter’s finger a “badge of honour” that keeps democracy vibrant and purposeful.
Highlighting the importance of youth participation, Modi said first-time voters hold the power to transform the country’s destiny and should be welcomed into democracy with celebration and pride. He encouraged families, schools, and colleges to mark the milestone of youngsters attaining voting age through small ceremonies, stressing that educational institutions play a key role as nurseries of democratic values. He also urged MY-Bharat volunteers to spread awareness about the importance of enrolling and voting with a “Can Do” spirit.
The prime minister lauded the Election Commission of India for strengthening democratic processes and underlined India’s legacy as not just the world’s largest democracy but also the Mother of Democracy. He praised citizens’ commitment to voting across diverse terrains—from the Himalayas to remote islands—and emphasised the crucial role of Nari Shakti, especially young women, in building an inclusive and strong democracy.