Guwahati: The Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation Cell (SVEEP) of Kamrup, Assam, has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati to develop a 3D-printed dummy ballot unit that was unveiled on Monday.

The 3D-printed dummy ballot unit aims to dispel any apprehensions or uncertainties associated with the voting process and foster maximum voter participation. The SVEEP is an umbrella program initiated by the Election Commission of India (ECI), is dedicated to educating voters about the electoral process.

The dummy ballot unit is made from PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable and eco-friendly material derived from corn starch.

Researchers at IIT Guwahati designed and manufactured the device within 48 hours, incorporating interactive features such as sound and light as output indicators to assist users during the voting process.

This initiative marks the first-of-its-kind endeavor in India by the IIT Guwahati team to develop a 3D-printed dummy ballot unit. "The use of PLA ensures that the dummy ballot unit is not only environmentally sustainable but also reusable, contributing to sustainable practices in voter education initiatives", the IIT-G said in a release.

Ajeet Kumar, Assistant Professor at IIT Guwahati, expressed pride in designing a solution that will empower people to participate in democracy with confidence. Parameswar K. Iyer, Dean PRBR, of IIT Guwahati, commended the collaboration for easing anxiety and empowering citizens with a deeper understanding of the voting process.

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