National Voters’ Day: PM Modi urges youth to register at 18, calls voting a constitutional duty
In the 130th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked eligible young Indians to sign up as voters the moment they turn 18, describing voting as central to democracy and a key responsibility under the Constitution, a day before Republic Day celebrations.
Message to first-time voters
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 25 January 2026, urged young citizens to register as voters as soon as they turn 18, describing participation in elections as a vital step in strengthening India’s democracy and fulfilling a constitutional responsibility.
Speaking in the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi linked the appeal to National Voters’ Day (observed on 25 January) and the eve of Republic Day (26 January), framing the moment of becoming a voter as a major milestone rather than a routine life event.
Why the PM connected it to Republic Day
Modi also spoke about the constitutional values associated with Republic Day, recalling that the Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950. He said the occasion offers citizens an opportunity to pay tribute to those who framed the Constitution, while reminding young people that citizenship includes duties as well as rights.
In the broadcast, he emphasised that welcoming first-time voters into the democratic process helps deepen democratic values. The address also included broader remarks on India’s development priorities and the importance of quality, even as he highlighted the growing role of youth in innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Date of remarks: 25 January 2026
- Platform: Mann Ki Baat (130th episode)
- Core message: register to vote at 18; voting strengthens democracy
- Context: National Voters’ Day and Republic Day eve