The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati or IIT-G in collaboration with Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation Cell or SVEEP of Assam’s Kamrup district are aiming to revolutionise voter education and participation. Subsequently, for the first time they have created and unveiled a novel 3D printed dummy ballot unit at IIT Guwahati campus.
The unit is made with the aim of acquainting citizens, particularly the new voters and senior citizens with the voting process. The 3D-printed dummy ballot unit aspires to dispel apprehensions, anxiety and uncertainties often linked with voting. Through its tactile, interactive experience, this tool was created to inculcate confidence. It hopes to inspire maximum participation in democratic practices.
Kamrup District Commissioner Keerthi Jalli showered appreciation for IIT-G Researchers, who created the swift design leading to creation of a highly practical and valuable tool for helping people. They may gain familiarity with voting process through it. Confidence was likely to bolster and encourage. The encouragement was for increased democratic practice participation, she added.
The dummy ballot unit was manufactured using cutting-edge 3D printing technology and biodegradable and eco-friendly Polylactic Acid or PLA material. It is derived from corn starch. The process took a remarkable 48-hour timeframe. Features such as sound and light indicators were included to help.
Talking about the importance of developed ballot unit, IIT-G Director Prof Rajeev Ahuja and IIT-G Assistant Professor Ajeet Kumar mentioned, “With its interactive features and biodegradable material, this innovative tool will be a valuable resource. It’s for educating citizens about voting process.”
This initiative represents remarkable milestone in voter education efforts. It’s part of umbrella program initiated by Election Commission of India or ECI.
