ECI rolls out digital airtime vouchers for Assembly polls

March 23, 2026

In a significant move aimed at ensuring fair campaigning opportunities, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued digital vouchers to recognised political parties, allowing them free airtime on Doordarshan (DD) and All India Radio (AIR) for the upcoming Assembly elections.

Digital push to streamline campaign access

The initiative has been introduced under Section 39A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which ensures equitable access to state-owned media during elections. The ECI has distributed these digital time vouchers through its IT platform to all recognised National and State parties contesting in poll-bound regions including Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and the Union Territory of Puducherry.

The digital system eliminates the need for physical collection of vouchers, making the process more transparent and efficient.

45 minutes base airtime for each party

Under the scheme, each eligible political party will receive a base allocation of 45 minutes of free airtime on both DD and AIR. This time will be distributed across regional networks within each state or Union Territory.

Additionally, parties may receive extra airtime depending on their performance in previous Assembly elections, ensuring a performance-linked distribution model.

Broadcast schedule and allotment process

The broadcast window will begin from the date of publication of the final list of contesting candidates and will continue until two days before polling in each phase.

The exact schedule of telecast and broadcast slots will be determined through a draw of lots conducted at the state or UT level. This process will be carried out in the presence of party representatives and officials from the Chief Electoral Officer’s office, ensuring fairness and transparency.

Strict guidelines for political content

The ECI has also laid down detailed guidelines for content to be aired. Political parties must submit transcripts and recordings in advance, ensuring that all material complies with prescribed norms.

Recordings must be produced either in studios meeting technical standards set by Prasar Bharati or at designated DD and AIR centres.

Panel discussions to enhance voter awareness

Apart from individual party broadcasts, Prasar Bharati will organise up to two panel discussions or debates on DD and AIR. Each recognised party will be allowed to nominate one representative to participate, with discussions moderated by approved coordinators.

Ensuring level playing field

The move is part of the ECI’s broader efforts to provide a level playing field to all political parties, especially smaller and regional ones, by giving them access to mass media without financial burden. By leveraging digital tools, the Commission aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and fairness in the electoral process.