In India, a Voter ID card is essential for exercising your right to vote. Traditionally, these were issued physically. However, the good news is that the Election Commission of India now lets you download a digital version of your Voter ID card, also called an e-EPIC. This digital card is a secure and convenient way to carry your ID wherever you go.
This article discusses the basic information you need to download a Voter ID, the steps to do so, and the benefits of e-Epic.
Prepare necessary information
Before diving into the downloading process, ensure you have the following information at hand:
- You must be a registered voter in India.
- You should have your EPIC number (printed on your physical Voter ID card) or the reference number from your voter ID application form.
- A mobile phone linked to your Voter ID registration.
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How to download your voter ID card?
Step 1: Visit the National Voter Services Portal (NVSP) Website.
Step 2: Click on Login if you already have an account. Otherwise, click on the Sign up button and register yourself using your mobile number.
Step 3: Once logged in, click on the E-EPIC Download tab.
Step 4: You will be given two options: Enter your EPIC number or your Form Reference Number. Choose the one you have and enter it along with your state. Click on the Search button.
Step 5: Your Voter ID details will be displayed on the screen. Verify them and click on Send OTP. If your mobile number is not linked, you must first link it, and then you can download the Voter ID card.
Step 6: Enter the OTP received on your mobile phone and click the Verify button.
Step 7: Your e-EPIC will be available for download in PDF format. You can save it on your phone or print it for future reference.
Benefits of e-EPIC
- Convenience: Unlike your physical Voter ID card, you can keep your e-EPIC on your phone wherever you are. This means you won’t have to worry about losing your physical card or leaving it behind at home when it’s time to vote.
- Security: The e-EPIC is a secure document with encrypted data, making it tamper-proof.
- Eco-friendly: Downloading an e-EPIC saves paper and reduces the need for physical cards, contributing to a greener environment.
The e-EPIC is a digital representation of your physical Voter ID card and holds the same legal validity. It is accepted as a valid ID document at polling stations. However, it’s recommended that you keep a copy of your physical card for backup purposes. If the e-EPIC has any technical issues on election day, having the physical card means you won’t lose your right to vote.
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