Election Commission of India Increases Daily Allowances for Electoral Officers
Synopsis
In a notable update, the Election Commission of India has raised daily allowances for electoral officers, marking the first increase since 2016. This change affects presiding officers, polling officers, and various support staff, with significant increases in their compensation as elections approach.
Key Takeaways
The Election Commission of India has increased daily allowances for electoral officers for the first time since 2016.
Presiding officers' allowances rose from Rs 350 to Rs 500.
Polling officers' allowances increased from Rs 250 to Rs 400.
Staff involved in video surveillance and related tasks will now earn Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 daily.
Upcoming elections in four states and one Union Territory are scheduled for next month.
Kolkata, March 25 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a significant increase in daily allowances for electoral officers across all tiers on Wednesday. This adjustment marks the first increase since 2016.
According to the ECI’s directive, the daily allowance for presiding officers and counting supervisors has been raised from Rs 350 to Rs 500. Similarly, polling officers will now receive an increase from Rs 250 to Rs 400.
Moreover, the allowance for assistant counting officials has been enhanced from Rs 350 to Rs 450.
Additionally, the daily allowance for “Ground-D” assistants, who play a vital role in the polling process, has been adjusted from Rs 200 to Rs 350.
Staff responsible for video surveillance, accounting teams, call centers, flying squads, and monitoring cells will also see a substantial increase in their daily allowances. Previously earning between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,200, they will now be compensated with Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 daily.
The daily allowance for micro-observers has also been doubled, now standing at Rs 2,000 instead of Rs 1,000.
Next month, four states—Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, and Assam—along with the Union Territory of Puducherry, are set to hold elections, with results expected on May 4.
West Bengal is scheduled for two phases of polling on April 23 and April 29. The first phase will cover 152 out of 294 assembly constituencies, while the remaining 142 constituencies will vote in the second phase.
It is noteworthy that West Bengal is the only state where the special intensive revision (SIR) process has not been concluded under the existing model code of conduct.
Ongoing judicial review is examining voters identified under the logical discrepancy category.
The first supplementary list has been published, allowing those found excludable in the adjudication process the opportunity to appeal at any of the 19 Appellate Tribunals set up for this purpose.
Point of View
This increase in daily allowances for electoral officers signifies a recognition of their vital role in the electoral process. It reflects a commitment to ensuring fair and efficient elections, which are fundamental to our democracy. As India heads towards critical elections, this move aims to motivate and support those at the forefront of the electoral process.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last increase in polling officer remuneration?
The last increase in polling officer remuneration occurred in 2016.
What is the new daily allowance for presiding officers?
The new daily allowance for presiding officers has been increased from Rs 350 to Rs 500.
Which states are going to the polls next month?
The states going to the polls next month are Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, and Assam, along with the Union Territory of Puducherry.
What is the significance of the special intensive revision process?
The special intensive revision (SIR) process is crucial for ensuring that the electoral rolls are up-to-date and accurate, which is essential for fair electoral practices.
How many Appellate Tribunals are available for appeals?
There are 19 Appellate Tribunals available for voters to appeal if they are found excludable in the judicial adjudication process.
