Page 37 - MANN KI BAAT (English)

1982: The First Trial of EVMs
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
were tested for the first time in
Paravur Assembly Constituency in
Kerala. However, legal and technical
hurdles prevented their widespread
adoption.

From Ballot Boxes to Electronic Voting Machines

1990s: The Era of Transition
The Election Commission of India
(ECI) introduced EVMs on a larger
scale, starting with experimental
use in select constituencies during
the 1998 Assembly Elections in Delhi,
Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

2013: Introduction of Voter- 2004: Nationwide EVM
Verified Paper Audit Trail Implementation
(VVPAT) In a historic move, India
To enhance became the first country to
transparency, the conduct its entire general
VVPAT system was
elections using EVMs in 2004.
introduced in select
This marked a shift towards
constituencies. It
allowed voters to verify faster, more reliable, and
that their vote was cast tamper-proof elections.
correctly, The ECI gradually
expanded its use in subsequent
elections.
India's journey from ballot boxes to EVMs showcases
its commitment to strengthening democracy
through innovation and adaptation. Each step
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33 reflects the nation's dedication to ensuring free, fair,
and transparent elections for its citizens.