National Voters’ Day: PM Modi asks new voters to register at 18, calls voting a constitutional duty

What PM Modi said on 25 January 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat (broadcast on Sunday, 25 January 2026) to spotlight National Voters’ Day and make a direct appeal to first-time voters. He urged eligible youth to register as soon as they turn 18, framing voting not just as a right but as a responsibility that deepens India’s democratic culture.

Linking the message to the eve of Republic Day (26 January 2026), the Prime Minister pointed to the Constitution’s role in shaping modern India and said the day is an opportunity to pay tribute to the architects of the Constitution. In that context, he described voting and civic participation as essential to keeping constitutional ideals alive in daily public life.

Why the message matters on National Voters’ Day

National Voters’ Day is marked annually on 25 January to encourage participation—especially among young and first-time voters—and to reinforce awareness about electoral rights and duties. The Prime Minister’s call aligns with the broader aim of building voter awareness and boosting enrolment among newly eligible citizens.

The emphasis on registering at 18 comes as parties and election authorities intensify outreach in colleges, communities and online platforms. The appeal also signals an attempt to link political participation with the Republic Day season, when public attention turns toward constitutional values, citizenship and governance.

What happens next

• Youth turning 18 in 2026 are being encouraged to complete voter enrolment at the earliest and verify details on official channels.
• Civic awareness drives around National Voters’ Day typically include voter pledges, recognition events and local-level programmes aimed at first-time voters.
• The Republic Day period (26 January 2026) is expected to keep the focus on constitutional duties, including active democratic participation.