Mandi (Kameshwar Sharma): The preparations for the Mandi municipal election 2026 training have officially begun in Himachal Pradesh as the administration conducted the first rehearsal session for polling officers at Sanskriti Sadan Kangnidhar. The exercise aims to ensure smooth, transparent, and fair conduct of the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for May 17, 2026.
As part of the Mandi municipal election 2026 training, a total of 291 polling officials participated in the first round of training, receiving detailed instructions on election procedures, responsibilities, and compliance with the Election Commission guidelines.
Large-Scale Election Preparation in Mandi
The Mandi municipal election 2026 training is focused on strengthening the preparedness of election staff across 15 municipal wards. Voting will be conducted at 38 polling booths, requiring well-coordinated management and strict adherence to election protocols.
Officials emphasized that proper training is essential for ensuring that the election process remains free, fair, and transparent.
Participation of 291 Polling Officers in Mandi Municipal Election
During the first rehearsal of the Mandi municipal election 2026 training, different categories of polling officials participated. The breakdown included:
- 66 Presiding Officers from Sadar Subdivision
- 67 Assistant Presiding Officers
- 74 Polling Officers-I
- 72 Polling Officers-II
- 12 officials from Balh Subdivision
All participants were briefed on their duties and responsibilities to ensure seamless execution of the election process.
Focus on Fair and Transparent Elections
Additional Deputy Commissioner Mandi, Gursimar Singh, addressed the officials during the Mandi municipal election 2026 training and stressed the importance of responsibility, neutrality, and vigilance. He instructed all officers to strictly follow Election Commission guidelines and avoid any negligence during the election process.
He also emphasized that even minor lapses can affect the credibility of the electoral system, making discipline and accuracy essential during polling.
Importance of Practical Training to Mandi Municipal Election
Assistant Electoral Officer and SDM Sadar Rupinder Kaur highlighted that the Mandi municipal election 2026 training is not just theoretical but also highly practical. She instructed officials to apply the training instructions effectively on polling day to ensure smooth execution.
She added that all polling staff must clearly understand their roles and act according to rules to maintain peace and transparency during voting.
Technical Training on EVM and Booth Management for Mandi Municipal Election
Nayab Tehsildar (Election) Rajesh Joshi and DIET Mandi lecturer Dr. Karam Singh provided detailed technical training during the Mandi municipal election 2026 training session.
Officials were trained on key operational aspects including:
- Polling booth setup
- EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) operation
- Mock poll procedure
- Polling station management
- Election-day technical handling
This hands-on training ensures that officials are well-prepared to handle real-time challenges during voting.
Upcoming Rehearsals Scheduled
The Mandi municipal election 2026 training program includes multiple rehearsal sessions to further strengthen preparedness. The second rehearsal is scheduled for May 8, followed by the final rehearsal on May 14.
These stages are designed to refine coordination among polling teams and ensure flawless execution on election day.
Ensuring Smooth Election Process
Senior officials, including Tehsildar Sadar Sanjeev Kumar, Tehsildar Election Rajesh Sharma, nodal officers, and sector officers, were also present during the training session.
Authorities stated that the Mandi municipal election 2026 training is a crucial step in ensuring that the entire election process is conducted in a peaceful and systematic manner. The administration is committed to maintaining transparency and strengthening voter confidence.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Mandi municipal election 2026 training begins with first rehearsal
- 291 polling officers trained for 38 polling booths
- Elections scheduled for May 17, 2026 across 15 wards
- Focus on EVM handling, booth management & mock polls
- Two more rehearsals planned before final election
