In the 18th Lok Sabha elections, efforts are being made to boost voter turnout, with various organizations collaborating with the Election Commission. Corporate entities in India are playing their part by launching initiatives aimed at energizing citizens to head to the polling booths on voting day. Companies like Dabur India, Shree Cement, Flipkart, Fittr, Tinder, Spotify, Happiest Minds Technologies, and more are actively participating in encouraging voting among employees and the public.
Shree Cement's campaign "Vote solid, desh solid" and its pledge "Vote ka Vachan" aims to encourage voting and also aligns with its brand identity. Other companies like Flipkart are offering paid leaves on voting days to ensure employees can participate, while some like Tinder and Spotify are targeting young voters through innovative approaches. These initiatives are not only focused on encouraging employees but also the public at large to participate in the democratic process.
Additionally, businesses in India are ensuring their employees have the opportunity to vote by offering special leave for those posted in locations different from their voting centers. With the Representation of People Act, 1951, requiring businesses to declare a holiday on polling day, employees are entitled to a paid holiday without salary deductions. Amid the post-Covid scenario, companies are also enabling flexible work arrangements, including work from home options, to facilitate voting. The sense of community and collaboration is highlighted by companies like Shree Cement, which has engaged with local authorities to arrange voter ID cards for first-time voters and initiatives extending to employees and their families.