In an extensive operation aimed at facilitating the participation of voters in the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Indian Army, in collaboration with partner security forces, successfully executed transportation efforts between November 17 and 20. Over the course of these four days, the Army conducted a remarkable 140 sorties in the air, accumulating more than 77 hours of flight time. This effort resulted in the transport of 925 passengers and an impressive 8,385 kg of election-related cargo to some of the most remote and Naxal-affected regions of the state.
The elections for the Maharashtra Assembly took place on November 20, with results announced shortly after on November 23. A senior official from the Indian Army underscored the service’s instrumental role in ensuring that every corner of the state, including its most challenging areas, was able to partake in the democratic process.
The Army coordinated the movement of critical resources aimed at bolstering voter turnout in high-risk zones. Two Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) were deployed to enhance the air logistics required for transporting election officials and essential equipment, including Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to locations with limited surface access, notably regions affected by the Naxalite insurgency.
Officials reported that during the pre-election phase from November 17 to 20, the Army participated in 17 sorties, providing approximately 22 hours of flight time and assisting in the transportation of 124 passengers. Following the elections, during the de-induction phase from November 20 to 21, the aggregate sorties conducted rose to 56 over 23 hours, moving 408 passengers and 6,980 kg of cargo. Notably, the Army itself accounted for nine sorties during this phase, contributing 10 hours of flight time and ferrying 73 passengers.
A particularly significant aspect of this mission was the ability of the Army’s aviation helicopters to reach hard-to-access destinations, such as Sawargaon, Gyarapatti, Muramgaon, and Katezari—areas severely impacted by the Naxalite movement. These locations required specialized measures to ensure that election officials and critical voting equipment arrived safely and on time.
The successful culmination of this operation not only demonstrates the Indian Army’s logistical capabilities but also highlights its commitment to upholding the tenets of democracy. By ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their geographical challenges, were able to engage in the electoral process, the Army reaffirms its role as a vital supporter of democratic governance in the country.
