Will Training for EVM and VVPAT Checking Start This Friday in Bengal?
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Synopsis
The training for EVM and VVPAT checking in West Bengal starts this Friday, crucial for the upcoming Assembly elections. This initiative aims to ensure smooth electoral processes with a significant increase in the requirement for voting machines, reflecting the state's commitment to transparent elections.
Key Takeaways
- Training begins on Friday for EVM and VVPAT verification.
- Increase in polling booths due to ECI directives.
- Requirement of around 1.30 lakhs EVM and VVPAT machines.
- Three-phase verification of EVMs ensures reliability.
Kolkata, Nov 20 (NationPress) As West Bengal prepares for the vital Assembly elections next year, the training sessions for verifying electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) units are set to commence on Friday.
Engineers from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) will lead these sessions, which will involve EVM and warehouse officials from all districts across the state.
A four-member central team from the Election Commission of India (ECI), currently on a four-day visit to West Bengal to assess the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR), is also anticipated to be present on the first day of the training on Friday.
An official from the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office noted that the demand for EVMs and VVPATs for the 2026 Assembly elections will be significantly elevated, with an approximate 17 percent increase in polling booths compared to the 2024 Lok Sabha and 2021 Assembly elections.
“Typically, the total requirement for EVM and VVPAT machines is calculated based on the number of booths plus a 30 percent reserve. Based on this calculation, we will need around 1.30 lakhs of EVM machines and an equal number of VVPAT machines,” the official stated.
Regarding the increase in booths, the official explained that, following ECI directives, the total number of voters in a single booth should not exceed 1,200, necessitating the expansion of the number of booths.
The verification of EVM machines consists of three phases: the initial phase checks if the display reads “zero” when the machine is powered on. The second phase verifies that all buttons on the machines are operational.
The final phase tests whether the votes are registered in favor of the button pressed corresponding to the symbol.
Point of View
It's essential that election officials are well-prepared. The focus on voter accessibility and accuracy reflects our commitment to uphold democratic values.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of EVM and VVPAT training?
The training aims to ensure election officials are proficient in operating and verifying electronic voting machines and VVPAT units, crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
Why is there an increase in the number of polling booths?
The increase is driven by the directive from the Election Commission of India to limit the number of voters per booth to 1,200, necessitating more booths to accommodate voters.
Who is conducting the training?
Engineers from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) will conduct the training sessions for EVM and VVPAT checking.
When does the training start?
The training for EVM and VVPAT checking begins on Friday, November 20.
What is the significance of this training?
This training is significant as it prepares officials for the 2026 Assembly elections, ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.
