Bihar Elections: How India makes its indelible ink for voting; Click for details

 The country’s electoral ink is not only proof of voting, but also a symbol of scientific research and security. For decades, this process has remained safe and reliable, and its secret formula makes it unique and significant.

New Delhi: In India's first general election, complaints surfaced of voters casting their votes multiple times. Many people cast votes in someone else's name, raising questions about the credibility of the electoral process. To address these problems, the Election Commission considered placing an indelible mark on the voter's finger. This mark would ensure that the person had voted.

NPL Found a Solution

To address the problem, the Election Commission contacted the National Physical Laboratory of India (NPL). NPL developed an ink that would not be easily erased by water or chemicals. Silver nitrate was used for this. According to scientific evidence, it reacts with sodium in the body to form sodium chloride, which causes the blue ink to gradually darken and fade.

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Ink Manufacturing and Secret Formula

The ink is produced by a paint and varnish company in Mysore. The company's formula is strictly confidential and has not been made public. This company is the only one in the country that produces election ink, and it is exported to over 35 countries worldwide. Neither NPL nor the company has shared it with anyone else.

Journey From Finger to Nail

From 1952 to 1971, this ink was applied to the finger. However, some people refused to use it, especially on occasions like weddings. There was also concern that it could be rubbed off. In 1971, the rules were changed, requiring the ink to be applied to the nail instead of the finger. This mark gradually fades as the nail grows.

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Its Importance In India And World

This indelible ink is crucial for maintaining the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. Even today, this ink remains a reliable method for the Election Commission during voting. Furthermore, this ink is exported to many countries worldwide, helping India's science and technology sector maintain its international presence.

The country's electoral ink is not only proof of voting, but also a symbol of scientific research and security. For decades, this process has remained safe and reliable, and its secret formula makes it unique and significant.