Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 7: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday that India is on the brink of creating history, with its voter count expected to cross the remarkable milestone of one billion.

Addressing a press conference in the capital, Kumar highlighted the significance of 2024 as a year of global electoral activity, with nearly two-thirds of the world's population participating in democratic elections.

"In 2024, India conducted elections in eight States and Union Territories. These polls witnessed remarkable voter engagement, setting new records in Lok Sabha elections for voting percentages and increased participation, particularly from women," he stated.

According to the chief election commissioner, the recently released electoral rolls confirm that India now has over 99 cr registered voters. "With the Special Summary Revision (SSR) results from states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Punjab being declared today, we will officially surpass 99 cr voters. This positions us to soon become a nation of one billion voters, a record-breaking achievement," he added.

Kumar emphasized the growth in women's electoral participation, with the number of women voters nearing 48 cr. This represents a significant step toward gender parity in Indian elections.

The election commission also lauded the enthusiasm of voters and stakeholders who contributed to the robust democratic process across the country.