Revamped ballot paper design
Election Commission Updates EVM Ballot Paper: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a new design for the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) ballot paper. The update focuses on improved clarity, uniformity, and voter convenience. It is part of a wider set of 28 reforms introduced by the ECI in the past six months.
Key changes introduced
The new design introduces coloured candidate photographs, making identification simpler. The face of each candidate will now occupy three-fourths of the allotted photo space, improving visibility for voters.
Another major change is the use of a uniform font and size for the names of all candidates, including the NOTA (None of the Above) option. This ensures fairness, consistency, and easy readability.
Static GK fact: The EVM was first introduced in Indian elections in 1982 in Kerala on a pilot basis.
Layout and candidate display
The redesigned ballot paper will display a maximum of 15 candidates per sheet. If there are more than 15 candidates, additional sheets will be added. The NOTA option will always appear at the end of the list, ensuring better accessibility and visibility.
Static GK Tip: NOTA was introduced in Indian elections in 2013 following a Supreme Court directive.
Implementation strategy
The ECI has directed all Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of States and Union Territories to enforce the updated guidelines.
The first implementation will take place in the upcoming Bihar elections in 2025. This will serve as the rollout model before being extended to all state and national elections.
Broader electoral reforms
This initiative aligns with the ECI’s efforts to modernize electoral processes and make voting more transparent. Alongside this, other reforms in recent months include upgraded voter helplines, improved polling station facilities, and digital tools for voter awareness.
Static GK fact: The Election Commission of India was established in 1950 under Article 324 of the Constitution.
Significance for competitive exams
For aspirants, this update falls under electoral reforms and governance. It highlights how institutional changes aim to strengthen democracy by ensuring fairness, accessibility, and voter-friendly processes.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Election Commission Updates EVM Ballot Paper:
| Topic | Detail |
| Issued by | Election Commission of India |
| Purpose | Improve clarity, readability, and uniformity in ballot paper |
| Key changes | Coloured photographs, larger face space, uniform font |
| Maximum candidates per sheet | 15 |
| NOTA placement | Always after the last candidate |
| First rollout | Bihar Elections 2025 |
| Number of initiatives by ECI in 6 months | 28 |
| Constitutional provision | Article 324 |
| Year EVMs first used | 1982 (Kerala pilot) |
| Year NOTA introduced | 2013 |
