Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is an EPIC Number on a Voter ID?
- Key Facts: EPIC Number
- EPIC Number Eligibility
- Finding EPIC Number on Your Voter ID Card
- How to Find EPIC Number Online Without Your Voter ID Card
- EPIC Number: Uses & Benefits
- Why the EPIC Number Matters?
- Platforms to Download e-EPIC Card
- Replacing Lost/Forgotten EPIC
- EPIC Number KYC Completion Process
- NVSP Portal Registration
- Obtain EPIC Number for Old Voter ID Card
- Changing Old EPIC Number
- Tracking Application Status on NVSP Portal
- Downloading e-EPIC Without a Registered Mobile Number
- Searching Name in the Voter List using EPIC Number
- Searching Name in the Voter List using Mobile Number
- Linking Aadhaar with EPIC
- e-Epic for Voting
- Searching for Voter ID Card Online
- Correcting Voter ID Card Details
- Applying for a Duplicate Voter ID
- Linking Mobile Number With Voter ID
- Changing Phone No in Voter ID Card
- Downloading Voter List
- Services Offered by NVSP
- Voter Helpline Mobile App
- Conclusion
- Faq's
Introduction
Voting is not just a civic duty but also a fundamental right and a powerful tool for shaping the future of a nation. It is the cornerstone of democracy, allowing citizens to have a say in the governance and decision-making processes. Each vote counts and contributes to the voice of the people. Therefore, it is crucial for every eligible citizen to exercise their right to vote during elections. To participate effectively in the electoral process, voters should be aware of their EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) Number. The EPIC Number serves as a unique identifier for voters, ensuring accuracy and transparency in voter registration and electoral procedures. Knowing one's EPIC Number facilitates the verification of voter details, helps in checking voter ID status, and enables easy access to electoral services, ultimately strengthening the democratic process.
What is an EPIC Number on a Voter ID?
The Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number serves as a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier for registered voters in India. It is an essential component of the electoral process, designed to facilitate accurate voter identification and ensure the integrity of elections. The EPIC number is assigned to each voter upon registration and is prominently displayed on the front side of the Voter ID card, along with other key details such as the voter's name, photograph, address, and date of birth.
One of the primary roles of the EPIC number is in voter verification during elections. When a voter presents their Voter ID card at a polling station, election officials can verify their identity by matching the EPIC number on the card with the electoral roll. This process helps prevent impersonation and ensures that only eligible voters cast their ballots, contributing to the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
Moreover, the EPIC number plays a crucial role in preventing duplicate voting. Since each voter is assigned a unique EPIC number, instances of individuals attempting to vote multiple times are minimized, thus maintaining the integrity of election results. This unique identifier also streamlines the process of updating voter information, such as changes in address or corrections to personal details, as these updates can be linked to the EPIC number to maintain accurate electoral records.
With advancements in digital services, the EPIC number has gained further significance. It allows voters to access various online services provided by the Election Commission of India. These services may include checking voter details, verifying polling station information, tracking the status of applications related to voter registration or corrections, and accessing electoral information conveniently through digital platforms.
From a legal perspective, the EPIC number holds significant validity as proof of identity for voting purposes in India. It is an integral part of democratic participation, empowering citizens to exercise their right to vote and contribute to the democratic process. By ensuring that each voter is uniquely identified and authenticated through their EPIC number, the electoral system upholds fairness, transparency, and accuracy, essential pillars of a robust democratic framework.
|
Aspect |
Description |
|
EPIC Number Full Form |
Electors Photo Identification Card (EPIC) |
|
Purpose of Voter ID Card |
Acts as proof of being a registered voter during elections and as proof of age |
|
Eligibility to Cast Vote |
Holding a Voter ID card with an EPIC number makes an individual eligible to cast their vote during all kinds of elections in India |
|
EPIC Number Verification |
The EPIC number must be present on the electoral list or voter list to confirm eligibility to vote |
|
Downloading Voter ID Card |
Individuals can download their Voter ID card, including the EPIC number, in PDF format for easy access and record-keeping |
|
Dual Functionality of Voter ID Card |
Besides electoral purposes, the Voter ID card serves as proof of age, making it valuable for various administrative and official uses beyond elections |
|
Digital Accessibility |
The EPIC number and Voter ID card can be accessed digitally, enhancing convenience and ensuring easy access to electoral information whenever needed |
Key Facts: EPIC Number
- EPIC Full Form: EPIC stands for Electors Photo Identity Card, which is a unique identification card issued to eligible voters in India.
- Website to Know EPIC Number: You can find your EPIC number by visiting the official website of the Election Commission of India at https://electoralsearch.in/.
- Website to Download Voter ID: To download your Voter ID card or apply for one, you can visit the National Voter's Service Portal (NVSP) website at https://nvsp.in/.
- Searching for Voter ID Card Offline: To search for your Voter ID card offline, you can visit the nearest electoral office or the Election Commission's office in your area. They can assist you in retrieving your Voter ID information.
- Searching for Voter ID Card Online: For online searches related to Voter ID cards, you can use the official website of the Election Commission of India at https://electoralsearch.eci.gov.in/ or check your respective state's election commission website. These platforms allow you to search for your EPIC number, verify voter details, and access various electoral services conveniently from your home or office.
EPIC Number Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for obtaining the e-EPIC (electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card) are structured into two phases:
Phase 1 Eligibility
In the first phase, individuals who have been newly registered as electors during the Special Summary Revision of 2021 are eligible for the e-EPIC. These new electors must have a unique mobile number registered in the electoral roll. This initial phase focuses on providing digital identity cards to recently registered voters, streamlining their access to electoral services and enhancing their participation in the democratic process.
Phase 2 Eligibility
Following the initial phase, all general electors who possess a valid EPIC number become eligible for the e-EPIC. These broader eligibility criteria extend the benefits of the electronic Voter ID card to existing voters who already have their EPIC numbers but may not have transitioned to the digital format yet. By including all general electors, phase two aims to facilitate the digital adoption of Voter ID cards among a wider voter base, promoting digital governance and efficient electoral services.
Finding EPIC Number on Your Voter ID Card
To locate your EPIC number on your Voter ID card, you can simply look above your photo on the front side of the card. The EPIC number is typically placed in this area and is the same as your voter ID number.
If you don't have your Voter ID card on hand or need to verify the EPIC number online, you can visit the official website of the National Voters' Service Portal. There, you can access a section specifically dedicated to verifying voter details and retrieving your EPIC number. This online process provides a convenient way to access your voter information without needing the physical Voter ID card.
How to Find EPIC Number Online Without Your Voter ID Card
If you do not have your Voter ID card with you, you can follow these steps to find out your EPIC number online:
- Step 1: Go to the official Electoral Search website at https://electoralsearch.in/.
Search by Details in Electoral Roll- Step 2: Choose the "Search by Details" option on the website.
- Step 3: Enter the required information such as your name, date of birth, father's/husband's name, gender, and state.
- Step 4: Ensure you enter the captcha code accurately and then click on the search option.
- Step 5: Your name should appear in the search results below.
- Step 6: Make a note of your EPIC number once it is displayed.
EPIC Number: Uses & Benefits
The EPIC number on a Voter ID card has several important uses and benefits:
- Voting Eligibility: The EPIC number, generated by the Election Commission of India, is the key to voting eligibility during elections. Holding a Voter ID card with a valid EPIC number allows individuals to cast their votes, ensuring their participation in the democratic process.
- Online Updates: With the EPIC number, Voter ID cardholders can easily update their card details without the need to visit a government office. The changes, such as address updates or corrections, can be conveniently done online through the official website of the National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP).
- Identity Proof and Citizenship: The Voter ID card, with its EPIC number, serves as a crucial identity proof indicating that the holder is an Indian citizen. This proof of citizenship is essential for various administrative and legal purposes.
- Access to Government Services: A Voter ID card is not only identity proof but also facilitates access to various government services and schemes. It is often required as proof of identity while availing benefits under government programs.
- Combatting Electoral Fraud: By linking voting eligibility to the EPIC number, the electoral system helps reduce electoral fraud. The unique identification provided by the EPIC number contributes to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
- Obtaining an e-EPIC Card: In cases where a person has lost their old Voter ID card or needs corrections, they can apply for an e-EPIC card using their EPIC number. This digital version of the Voter ID card can be obtained online, offering convenience and accessibility to the cardholder.
|
Use of EPIC Number in Voter ID Card |
|
1. Voting Eligibility |
|
The EPIC number allows Voter ID cardholders to cast their votes during elections, ensuring their participation in the democratic process. |
|
2. Online Updates |
|
Cardholders can update their Voter ID card details online using the EPIC number, avoiding the need to visit a government office for changes. |
|
3. Identity Proof and Citizenship |
|
The EPIC number serves as proof of Indian citizenship and is a crucial identity document for various administrative and legal purposes. |
|
4. Access to Government Services |
|
The Voter ID card, with its EPIC number, grants access to government services and schemes that require proof of identity. |
|
5. Combatting Electoral Fraud |
|
Linking voting eligibility to the EPIC number helps reduce electoral fraud by ensuring only eligible citizens can vote. |
|
6. Obtaining e-EPIC Card |
|
Individuals can apply for an e-EPIC card using their EPIC number in case of lost or incorrect Voter ID card data, providing a digital alternative. |
The EPIC number on a Voter ID card not only establishes voting eligibility but also serves as a multi-purpose identity document with significant advantages in electoral participation, identity verification, and access to government services.
Why the EPIC Number Matters?
- Convenient Access: The EPIC number provides a quicker way to download or locate your Voter ID, streamlining the process for electoral services.
- Proof of Age: It serves as proof of being 18 years or older, essential for various legal and administrative purposes.
- Voting Eligibility: The EPIC number is indispensable for casting votes in all elections in India. Without a valid voter ID containing an EPIC number, voting rights are not granted.
- Self-Service: The EPIC number enables self-service functionalities such as printing the Voter ID for future use, making it convenient for the holder.
- Address Update: It eliminates the need for creating a new card when relocating to a different state or city. The EPIC number allows for online address changes and digital card downloads.
- Access to Electoral Services: Using EPIC numbers, individuals can access various electoral services such as applying for a Voter ID card, updating voter details, and checking ID status.
- Multipurpose Identity: Besides electoral purposes, the EPIC number serves as a unique identity beneficial in banking procedures, SIM card purchases, and other official processes.
- Ensuring Fair Elections: The EPIC number contributes to fair and transparent elections by preventing discrepancies and fraudulent activities like bogus and multiple voting, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
|
Aspect |
Description |
|
Convenient Access |
Quicker access to Voter ID, streamlining electoral services. |
|
Proof of Age |
Proof of being 18+, essential for legal and administrative purposes. |
|
Voting Eligibility |
Crucial for voting in all Indian elections; grants voting rights. |
|
Self-Service |
Enables printing Voter ID for future use, enhancing convenience. |
|
Address Update |
Allows online address changes and digital card downloads; no need for a new card. |
|
Access to Electoral Services |
Access various electoral services like applying for a Voter ID or updating details. |
|
Multipurpose Identity |
Acts as a unique identity useful in banking, SIM card purchases, and official processes. |
|
Ensuring Fair Elections |
Contributes to fair and transparent elections by preventing discrepancies and fraudulent activities. |
Platforms to Download e-EPIC Card
You can download the e-EPIC card through these platforms:
National Voters' Services Portal: https://voters.eci.gov.in/
National Voters' Services Portal
Voter Helpline Mobile App
Voter Helpline Mobile App
Replacing Lost/Forgotten EPIC
To obtain a new EPIC if you have lost or forgotten your EPIC number, follow these steps:
- Report the loss or forgetfulness of your EPIC to the authorities.
- Pay a fee of Rs 25 for a replacement EPIC, along with a copy of the complaint filed with the Police.
- If the loss occurred due to reasons beyond your control, such as a natural disaster, no fee is applicable for obtaining a replacement EPIC.
|
Steps |
Description |
|
1. Report Loss/Forgotten EPIC |
Inform the authorities about the loss or forgetfulness of your EPIC. |
|
2. Pay Fee and Provide Complaint Copy |
Pay a fee of Rs 25 for a replacement EPIC and submit a copy of the complaint filed with Police. |
|
3. Fee Waiver for Natural Disasters |
If the loss occurred due to reasons beyond your control, such as a natural disaster, fee waiver applies for the replacement EPIC. |
|
4. Obtain Replacement EPIC |
Upon fulfilling the requirements and paying the fee (if applicable), obtain your new EPIC card. |
EPIC Number KYC Completion Process
To complete your KYC (Know Your Customer) and download your e-EPIC (electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card), follow these steps:
- Step 1: Visit the official website https://voters.eci.gov.in/ and navigate to the "Download e-EPIC" section.
Login Page
- Step 2: Provide either your EPIC number or the form reference number associated with your Voter ID.
- Step 3: Complete the verification process by entering the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number.
- Step 4: After verifying your identity, click on the "Download e-EPIC" option to proceed.
- Step 5: If your mobile number is not registered in the electoral roll (eroll), select the KYC link to initiate the KYC process.
- Step 6: Complete the face liveness verification as part of the KYC process.
- Step 7: In the next step, update your mobile number to ensure accurate KYC completion.
- Step 8: Once the KYC process is completed and your mobile number is updated, you can proceed to download your e-EPIC.
NVSP Portal Registration
Steps to register and log in to the NVSP portal:
- Visit the official NVSP portal.
- Click on the 'Login' button.
- On the next page, click on the 'Register as a new user' link.
- Fill in your mobile number and enter the captcha code in the provided fields.
- Click on the 'Send OTP' link to complete the verification process.
- Now, log in to your account using your registered email ID or mobile number, password, and captcha code.
Obtain EPIC Number for Old Voter ID Card
To obtain an EPIC number for an old Voter ID card, follow these steps:
- Identify Old Series Format: The old series Voter ID card typically follows a format like DL/01/001/000000.
- Visit Official Link: Access the official link provided by the Election Commission- https://ceodelhi.gov.in/OnlineErms/KnowYourNewEpicNo.aspx
Old Voter ID EPIC Number- Enter Old Series Card Number: Input your old series card number into the designated field on the webpage.
- Click Search: After entering your old series card number, click on the "Search" button.
- Retrieve Standardized EPIC Number: The system will convert your old series card number into a standardized EPIC/Voter ID Card Number, which will be displayed on the screen.
Changing Old EPIC Number
To change your old EPIC number, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal of the Election Commission of India at https://eci.gov.in/.
- Obtain Form 8 from the portal, which is used for making changes such as name, photo, age, EPIC number, address, date of birth, and other details for voters who have shifted to another constituency.
- Fill out Form 8 with the necessary information and submit it as per the guidelines provided on the portal.
Tracking Application Status on NVSP Portal
To track the application status of your Voter ID on the NVSP Portal, follow these steps:
- Log in to your account on the NVSP Portal.
- Navigate to the home page and look for the option related to application status.
Track Application Status- Click on the application status option.
- Enter your reference number in the provided field.
- Click on the 'Track Your Status' option to view the current status of your application.
Downloading e-EPIC Without a Registered Mobile Number
Citizens who do not have a registered mobile number in the electoral roll can still download their e-EPIC by following these steps:
- Visit the official portal at www.nvsp.in and locate the 'E-EPIC Download' option.
- Register on the portal using your phone number and create a password for logging in.
- Sign in to your account using the created credentials to access and download the e-EPIC document in PDF format.
Searching Name in the Voter List using EPIC Number
To search for your name in the Voter List using your EPIC Number, follow these steps:
- Open the official website of the Election Commission of India at https://eci.gov.in/.
- Click on "Voter services" to be redirected to another page https://voters.eci.gov.in/.
- On the new page, select the 'Search in electoral roll' option and then choose 'Search by EPIC'.
Search by EPIC in Electoral Roll
- Enter your EPIC number and select your state from the options provided.
- Submit the captcha code for verification and then click on 'Search'.
- If your name is on the voters' list, it will be displayed after the search is completed.
Searching Name in the Voter List using Mobile Number
To search for your name in the Voter List using your Mobile Number, follow these steps:
- Open the official website of the Election Commission of India at https://eci.gov.in/.
- Scroll down on the homepage and look for the option to search for your name in the voter list.
- Click on "Search in electoral roll" and then select the 'Search by Mobile' option.
Search by Mobile No in Electoral Roll
- Enter your mobile number and the captcha code provided. Then, click on 'Send OTP'.
- Complete the OTP verification process by entering the OTP received on your mobile.
- After verification, your name will be displayed if it is on the voters' list.
Linking Aadhaar with EPIC
|
Method |
Steps |
|
Online Method - National Voters Service Portal |
|
|
Online Method - Voter Helpline App |
|
|
Offline Method - SMS |
|
|
Offline Method - Voter Centre |
|
e-Epic for Voting
The e-EPIC, available as a digital version of the EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card), can be downloaded onto mobile devices or computers, printed out, or uploaded to services like DigiLocker. This electronic version serves as a valid identity proof and can be used for voting.
Searching for Voter ID Card Online
Electoral Search Website:
- Visit the Electoral Search website. Note that voter information typically becomes available 2 to 3 weeks after applying for a Voter ID card.
- On the homepage, you'll find two options:
- Type your Epic Number and proceed with the search.
- Choose "Search by details" to fill in personal information like full name, age, date of birth, state, district, and constituency.
- For the first option, enter your Epic number, select your state, and input the security code. Go on 'Search' to view your voter details.
- If you opt for "Search by details," provide the required information and click on 'Search' to find your Voter ID card details.
State Election Website:
- Go to your state's election website.
- Provide basic details such as your name, father's name, and Voter ID card number in the search fields.
- Click on 'Search' to generate a list of profiles matching the information provided.
- Select your profile from the list to access detailed information about your Voter ID card.
Please Note: If you are unable to access your Voter Identity Card details online, you can visit the nearest electoral office in your city to obtain the necessary information.
Correcting Voter ID Card Details
- Visit the National Voter Service Portal at
https://voters.eci.gov.in/ - Click on the "Form 8 - Correction of entries in electoral roll" option.
- Provide the necessary details such as your state, district, and assembly/parliamentary constituency.
- Enter your name and surname in English as well as the official language of your state.
- Input the part number and serial number from your Voter ID card.
- Submit your EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number associated with your Voter ID.
- Choose the field(s) that need to be updated (such as name, address, date of birth, etc.) and upload the required supporting documents.
- Provide a declaration confirming the correctness of the details you are updating.
- Click on the "Submit" button to send your correction application.
- After submission, you will receive an email with a link to track the status of your application.
- The application processing time is typically around 30 days from the date of submission.
Applying for a Duplicate Voter ID
Applying for a Duplicate Voter ID card can be done both offline and online with these simple steps:
|
Process |
Steps |
|
Offline Process |
|
|
Online Process |
|
Linking Mobile Number With Voter ID
- Log in to the NVSP portal.
- If you're not registered, click on 'Register as a new user' under the 'Login' section.
- Provide your mobile number and enter the captcha displayed on the screen.
- Click on the 'Send OTP' link to receive a One-Time Password (OTP), then submit the OTP for verification.
- Choose the option 'I have Epic number' and enter your EPIC number. If you don't have an EPIC number yet, select 'I don't have Epic number'.
- Enter your first name, last name, and email address. Notifications regarding the linking process will be sent to the provided email.
- Create a password for the account, then click on 'Register'.
- Once registered, your mobile number and Voter ID will be successfully linked.
Changing Phone No in Voter ID Card
- Visit the official NVSP portal.
- Click on the option 'Correction of entries in electoral roll,' which will lead you to Form 8.
- Fill in the required details along with supporting documents and mention the updated mobile number that you wish to register.
- Submit the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number for verification.
- Provide the declaration as per the instructions and then click on 'Preview and Submit' to complete the process.
Downloading Voter List
- Step 1: Visit the Election Commission of India website: https://www.eci.gov.in/
Download Voter List
- Step 2: Navigate to the section 'Link to Official Sites of Chief Electoral Officers of all States/UT' and select your state.
- Step 3: On the respective state's page, locate and click on the 'Electoral Roll' option, then choose 'PDF Electoral Roll'.
- Step 4: Select your district from the provided list.
- Step 5: After selecting the district, click on the name of the Assembly Constituency (AC) where you are registered to vote.
- Step 6: A list of polling stations within that AC will appear. Select the 'Draft Roll' option next to your polling station.
- Step 7: You will see the voter list and a download option. Simply click on the download option to save the voter list to your device.
Services Offered by NVSP
The National Voters' Services Portal https://electoralsearch.in/ offers a range of services to facilitate the electoral process.
NVSP Services
These services include:
- Searching for your name in the National Electoral Roll.
- Locating your polling station on a map for convenient access during elections.
- Printing your voter information slip, which contains essential details related to your voter registration.
- Applying for enrolment, deletion, or change of address in the electoral roll, ensuring your voter information is up to date.
- Accessing information about Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and Electoral Roll Officers (EROs) responsible for managing electoral activities in your area.
- Finding details about District Election Officials and officials in the Chief Election Office, providing transparency and accessibility to electoral authorities.
Voter Helpline Mobile App
Voter Helpline Mobile App
The Voter Helpline App developed by the Election Commission of India provides a range of features and services to empower voters and enhance their participation in the electoral process.
Here are some key features of the Voter Helpline App:
- Voter Registration: Users can register as new voters directly through the app, simplifying the registration process and increasing voter inclusion.
- EPIC Number Search: Users can search for their EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number by entering their details such as name, date of birth, and other relevant information.
- Voter ID Card Download: The app allows users to download their Voter ID card digitally, providing easy access to their electoral identity anytime, anywhere.
- Polling Station Locator: Users can find nearby polling stations or voting booths based on their location, making it convenient to locate where to vote during elections.
- Electoral Roll Verification: Users can verify their name and details in the electoral roll to ensure the accuracy and correctness of their voter registration information.
- Candidate Information: The app provides information about candidates contesting in elections, their profiles, party affiliations, and election symbols, empowering voters to make informed decisions.
- Election Updates: Users receive real-time updates and notifications about upcoming elections, polling dates, and other election-related news, keeping them informed and engaged.
- Complaint Registration: Users can lodge complaints related to electoral issues, such as voter list discrepancies, misconduct during elections, or violations of election rules, directly through the app.
- FAQs and Helpdesk: The app includes a section with frequently asked questions (FAQs) and a help desk feature to assist users with any queries or issues they may encounter while using the app or during the electoral process.
- Language Support: The app supports multiple languages to cater to a diverse user base, ensuring accessibility and ease of use for users from different linguistic backgrounds.
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of the EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number on a Voter ID is crucial for every citizen participating in the democratic process. The EPIC number not only serves as a unique identifier but also grants voting eligibility, facilitates online updates and corrections, and acts as proof of citizenship and age. Through various platforms and services offered by the Election Commission of India, citizens can easily access their EPIC number, verify their voter details, and engage in electoral activities efficiently.
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