Innovative 3d Printed Dummy Ballot Unit unveiled by IIT Guwahati

The Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup Election District along with the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati developed a 3D-printed dummy ballot unit to enhance voter awareness and engagement. 

The inauguration of the dummy ballot unit was held at the IIT Guwahati campus and was attended by several dignitaries.

Objective of developing the 3D-printed dummy ballot unit 

• The purpose of creating a 3D-printed dummy ballot unit is to educate people, particularly new voters and senior citizens, about the complexities of the voting process and alleviate any fears, concerns or doubts they may have. By providing a practical experience, the dummy ballot unit aims to encourage greater voter turnout.
• Researchers at IIT Guwahati designed and manufactured the device with cutting-edge 3D printing technology and PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable and eco-friendly material derived from corn starch. 
• The device incorporates features such as sound and light as output indicators to assist users during voting. It was designed to be environmentally sustainable and reusable, contributing to sustainable practices in voter education initiatives.
• Smt. Keerthi Jalli, Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup, Guwahati, Assam, expressed appreciation for IIT Guwahati's initiative and stated that it would aid individuals in gaining familiarity with the voting process, thereby boosting their confidence and encouraging greater participation in democratic practices.
• According to Prof. Ajeet Kumar, Assistant Professor at IIT Guwahati a ballot unit, with its interactive features and biodegradable material, would be a valuable resource in educating citizens about the voting process. 
• The partnership between the SVEEP cell of Kamrup District and IIT Guwahati represents a notable milestone in voter education endeavours.
• The IIT Guwahati Department of Design (DoD) conducts interdisciplinary research in fields such as engineering, product design, behavioural, and social sciences.
• Through its programmes, the department aims to nurture leadership qualities in its graduates, equipping them to navigate dynamic environments with innovation and values at the forefront.

SVEEP 

• SVEEP is a programme launched by the Election Commission of India. It aims to educate and spread awareness among the citizens, electors, and voters regarding the electoral process. 
• This programme is designed to fulfill the needs of different states based on their socio-economic, cultural, and demographic profile as well as their history of electoral participation. 
• SVEEP is a multi-approach program that uses various modes and media to provide voter education materials and promote informed participation in the electoral process. 
• The Commission produces a range of voter awareness materials and disseminates them through different mediums/platforms of communication, such as print media, electronic media, and social media.