Election Commission of India (ECI) recently announced a major improvement in the distribution of Voter ID cards, or Elector Photo Identity Cards (EPICs). With this new announcement, people can receive their voter ID cards within 15 days of making any change in the electoral rolls, such as registering new voters or modifications in the existing voter's details. This is a notable enhancement over the previous timeline, which used to take more than a month.
What's New in the Voter ID Delivery System?
Quicker Delivery: EPICs will be sent to voters within 15 days of processing their application or update.
Real-Time Tracking: Voters can track the realtime status of Voter ID card from generation to delivery.
SMS Notifications: People will be informed via SMS alerts at each step of the process
Integrated IT System: ECI has introduced a stand-alone IT module integrated with the Department of Posts (DoP). This will ensure efficient and secure delivery.
How to Apply for a Voter ID Card Online
It's easy to apply for a Voter ID card and can be done from home using the official National Voters' Services Portal or the ECINet portal.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
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Visit the to the official voter services portal on the website of Election commission of India.
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Fill Form 6, application form for fresh voter registration.
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Upload your recent photo and proof of address, age, and identity.
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Submit the application on the portal.
After the completion of this process, an acknowledgement slip will be issued containing a reference number.
Documents Required for a Voter ID Card Online
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Proof of Identity (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.)
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Proof of Address (Ration card, Electricity bill, etc.)
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Recent Passport-sized Photo
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Age Proof (Birth certificate, School certificate, etc.)
How to Track Your Voter ID Card Status Online
After applying, you can track your Voter ID card status online by using the reference number given during application.
Steps to Track
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Go to the official voter services website.
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Click on the link to track application status.
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Enter your reference number and choose your state.
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Submit the information to see the current status of your Voter ID card.
You will also be getting SMS updates at each step of the process, from card generation to dispatch and delivery, which makes the system transparent and user-friendly.
Downloading the Digital Voter ID (e-EPIC)
If you need instant access to your Voter ID, you can download the digital version (e-EPIC) from the internet.
How to Download e-EPIC
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Log in to the voter services portal.
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Navigate to the e-EPIC download section.
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Input your EPIC number or form reference number.
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Confirm your mobile number by entering the OTP received by you.
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Download e-EPIC in PDF format.
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You can save this digital card securely on your phone or upload it to digital lockers such as DigiLocker for easy convenience.
Advantages of the New 15-Day Delivery System
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Speed: Time taken for delivery cut from more than 30 days to 15 days.
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Transparency: Real-time monitoring and SMS updates keep electors informed.
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Convenience: Online application, tracking, and digital download facility.
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Security: Integration with DoP and secure IT systems provide for delivery in a secure manner.
The aim of improving and enhancing electoral services and voter convenience in the India is evident in this latest action by the Election Commission of India.The ECI is led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and includes Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi.
All eligible Indian citizens can quickly and securely apply for, track, and receive their voter ID card by following these simple steps, allowing them to participate fully in the democratic process.
