Pune: Bhosari School’s Digital Polls Teach Students Constitution, Civic Values in Action

Pune: Bhosari School’s Digital Polls Teach Students Constitution, Civic Values in Action
Pimpri: In a pioneering move to bring democratic values to life in the classroom, Vaishnomata Indrayani Nagar School in Bhosari, under the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), successfully conducted its 2025–26 student council elections through a completely digital and paperless process. The initiative, designed to mirror real-world electoral systems, empowered students to take charge of every stage of the election—making it a truly hands-on civic learning experience.
The digital voting system, ensured a smooth and eco-friendly election, held under the guidance of Principal Vandana Innani and the school’s teachers. What set this election apart was the complete involvement of students—not just as candidates, but also as election officers, presiding officials, and volunteers, ensuring adherence to the code of conduct throughout.
Out of 379 registered student voters from Classes 5 to 7, as many as 300 exercised their right to vote digitally. Students Vaibhav Kopre and Naziyakhatun Ansari served as presiding officers. Thanks to the digital format, results were declared swiftly. Shubham Dayanand Awate was elected as the school’s ‘Chief Minister’ with 146 votes, and 9 others were elected to key cabinet positions.
The initiative went beyond electing student leaders—it offered students an immersive understanding of constitutional values, democratic processes, and civic responsibility. The paperless model also highlighted the importance of environmental consciousness in governance.
“What the students at Vaishnomata School have done is extraordinary. This digital election was not just about choosing student leaders—it was about instilling the foundations of democracy in young minds. When children take ownership of a process this complex and execute it with discipline and transparency, it shows the kind of responsible citizens we are nurturing. I hope more schools follow this inspiring model.”
– Shekhar Singh, Commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation
“The digital election conducted by students of Vaishnomata School in Bhosari is truly commendable. More than a school activity, it was a living experience in democracy. From voter registration to result declaration, every stage was managed by students themselves. It helps build awareness about the Constitution, the value of voting, and responsible leadership.”
– Pradip Jambhale Patil, Additional Commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation
“It is vital that students are not limited to bookish knowledge. Real-life democratic simulations like this equip them with key values—civic awareness, responsibility, transparency, and leadership. This is more than a school election; it’s a powerful step toward shaping informed, responsible future citizens.”
– Kirankumar More, Assistant Commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation