Voters’ Padyatra Organized in Itanagar on Martyrdom Day of Mahatma Gandhi to Strengthen Democratic Values
Itanagar : On the solemn occasion of the Martyrdom Day of Mahatma Gandhi, a grand Voters’ Padyatra was successfully organized in Itanagar to promote voter awareness and democratic participation among youth and the general public. The padyatra was organized by MY Bharat, Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Sangey Lhaden Sports Academy. The padyatra commenced from the Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) Building and concluded at the SAI Complex, Chimpu covering distance of 4 km. It was flagged off by the Chief Guest, Mrs. Likha Nari Tadar, Hon’ble Mayor, Itanagar Municipal Corporation, in the presence of Special Guest Ms. Taba Jumshi, Miss Arunachal Pradesh 2025, and Guest Shri Satyajit Kachari, Assistant Director, National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), SAI. Shri Sandeep Banerjee, State Level Master Trainer from the State Election Commission, also graced the occasion.
More than 500 youth and citizens enthusiastically participated in the padyatra, raising slogans such as “Long Live Democracy” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, creating a strong awareness buzz among the general public. At the SAI Complex, Ms. Taba Jumshi, Miss Arunachal Pradesh 2025, addressed the gathering and encouraged youth, especially first-time voters, to exercise their right to vote responsibly. She felicitated first-time voters with badges and administered the Voters’ Pledge, which was also signed by participants on a voter pledge hoarding. Shri Gopesh Pandey, Deputy Director, MY Bharat, highlighted the relevance of the day by recalling the foundations of democracy, truth, and non-violence laid by Mahatma Gandhi, and emphasized his immense contribution to India’s freedom and democratic ethos. He also spoke about MY Bharat, a flagship youth engagement platform of the Government of India, which aims to empower young citizens to become active stakeholders in nation-building through volunteerism, civic participation, and leadership.
Shri Sandeep Banerjee shared important insights on the electoral process, voter rights, and ethical voting practices, while motivating youth to participate in elections with awareness and integrity. Youth were also encouraged to imbibe yoga and meditation as part of a balanced and disciplined lifestyle.
The program witnessed the presence of several dignitaries and officials, including Shri Abhishek Mandal, Deputy Director, MY Bharat; Shri Bhargav Jyoti Bhuyan, Project Assistant; Shri Shatrughan Gungli from the Department of Youth Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh; Shri Ashish Kumar, Administrative Assistant; and Shri Subhash, among others. The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Shri Shatrajit Kachari, Assistant Director, NCOE, SAI, who appreciated the collaborative efforts of all organizations and the enthusiastic participation of youth in making the Voters’ Padyatra a meaningful success.
