Students at Meenkashi College encouraged to get involved in the political process like their counterparts in the U.S.

American Officer Ariel Howard interacts with students

On July 21, the U.S. Consulate joined with the State Election Commission to motivate young people to participate in the electoral process.  Over 1200 students were urged to participate in the electoral process as their counterparts – American young people – are  doing in increasing numbers.  American Officers Ragini Gupta and Ariel Howard highlighted how young people are changing the shape of politics in the U.S. and how the youth vote would likely be determinative in the 2008 elections.  Noted local celebrity talk show host Rose reinforced this message and encouraged the students to become candidates or party leaders as well.   The Election Commission of India’s representative, Ms. Latha, explained the importance of enrollment, registration and the steps required to obtain an “Electors’ Photo Identity Card” (EPIC).  The Election Commission deployed its machinery to enroll students and provided the EPIC cards to those who had registered earlier.