Question

If states could be directed to change voting methods to generate higher turnout, what methods would you suggest they use?

Answer 1

Some of the innovative method that can be used to generate higher voting turnout may be-

• Incentives to voter on casting a valid vote
• Punitive provision to skip voting
• mix of online as well as offline voting

Explanation:

Voting is at the heart of a vibrant democracy. However, democracies across the world are witnessing low voter turnout. Hence States need to go through some innovative mechanism to persuade peoples to vote and increase vote count. These can be done through-

• Incentives to the voter on casting a valid vote- Adequate incentive can be given to voters casting valid vote. This can be food coupon, study coupon or any social benefits scheme coupon. However, it should not be treated as a freebie.  
• Punitive provision to skip voting- Punitive previsions must be there for persons who don’t exercise their franchise. It can also act a deterrent measure thus increasing voting count.
• A mix of online as well as offline voting- Online voting can increase voter turnout since many persons stay away due to various engagements such as study, job etc. They can vote through an online mechanism.