Jamshedpur: Hands-on EVM and VVPAT training for election officials

Jamshedpur, October 31: To ensure the smooth, fair, and peaceful conduct of the Ghatshila Assembly By-election 2025, the second phase of polling party training commenced on Wednesday at the Women’s University, Sidgora. On the first day, Presiding Officers (PO) and First Polling Officers (P1) were trained, followed by the training of Second (P2) and Third Polling Officers (P3) on the subsequent day. The training programme is being conducted under the guidance of District Election Officer (DEO)  Karn Satyarthi.

Addressing the trainees,  Satyarthi highlighted that the voting process forms the cornerstone of democracy, and every polling personnel must carry out their duties with utmost sincerity and transparency. He firmly reminded the officials that there is no scope for negligence or carelessness on polling day and urged all participants to clear their doubts during the training to ensure flawless execution of their responsibilities.

During the session, polling teams received hands-on training on the operation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). Trainers demonstrated machine operation, mock polling, sealing, and packing procedures. Participants were also briefed on filling various election-related forms, sealing envelopes, and maintaining proper documentation.

Additionally, the trainees were introduced to the use of the PRO and ILMS mobile applications to streamline reporting, attendance, and other communication tasks on polling day. Trainers also highlighted common mistakes made by polling teams—such as form inaccuracies and errors in machine handling—and explained preventive measures. Detailed instructions were provided on post-poll procedures, including safe transportation of EVMs and VVPATs to the strong room and their secure deposit methods.

The comprehensive training aims to ensure that every polling personnel performs their duties efficiently, contributing to the transparent and peaceful conduct of the by-election.