New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at recognizing the efforts of election personnel, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has enhanced the remuneration for officials deployed on election duty – including Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, Counting Personnel, Sector Officers, Micro Observers, and even Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The decision comes as a major update, with the last such revision having taken place between 2014 and 2016.
The Commission has also increased the rates for food and refreshment allowances provided to officials on polling and counting duties.
Election Duty: Long Hours, High Responsibility
Conducting elections in the world’s largest democracy is a massive logistical and administrative task. Election staff are drawn from Central and State Government departments, PSUs, and local bodies, and are often deployed for extended periods under challenging conditions.
Acknowledging their critical role and long hours, the ECI noted that it was essential to ensure that remuneration and allowances reflect the gravity and commitment of their responsibilities.
Key Remuneration Revisions:–
- For Presiding Officers and Counting Supervisors, the remuneration – unchanged since 2014 at ₹350 per day or part thereof – has now been revised to ₹500 per day or ₹2000 as a lump sum for their services.
- For Polling Officers, who previously received ₹250 per day, the updated rate is ₹400 per day or ₹1600 as a lump sum.
These revisions represent a substantial increase, ensuring that officials receive better compensation reflective of current standards and workload demands. The list is given below –
The revised food allowance will be payable in addition to the daily remuneration or lump sum honorarium, depending on the nature and duration of duty.
Step Towards Fair Compensation
The ECI’s announcement has been widely welcomed by election staff and administrators, especially given the intense physical and logistical demands of conducting elections in India. The Commission acknowledged that updating the pay structure was essential to match inflation and rising costs while maintaining morale and motivation among the workforce.
The revised rates will be applicable in upcoming elections across the country, including assembly and parliamentary polls.
Why the Revision Matters
This revision is seen as long overdue by stakeholders. Polling and counting officials face immense pressure, security risks, and physically demanding conditions, particularly during large-scale Lok Sabha or Assembly elections.
By revising the honorarium, the Election Commission sends a clear message: those who ensure the integrity of the electoral process deserve both recognition and fair compensation.
