In the world of public health and governance, the indelible ink mark holds profound significance. A father and his curious 5-year-old child, both marked by the same ink, sparking a dialogue that bridges generations. 

“Father, our ink looks the same,” the child remarks after their polio vaccine. With a smile, the father explains, “Yours is from the polio vaccine, mine from casting a vote. Your ink is safe, but mine might contain chemicals.” 

Join us as we explore the varied uses and importance of indelible ink also known as election ink or voters’ ink.  

Introduction of Voters Ink  

The concept of using voter ink was to prevent electoral fraud and double voting. This was pioneered by India’s first Chief Election Commissioner, Sukumar Sen. The ink was developed by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). Later Council of Science and Industrial Research (CSIR) – National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) patented the ink and licensed it to Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL) for production. The ink made its debut in India’s electoral process during the 1962 general elections. 

The indelible ink is applied under Rule 49K of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. This rule mandates the marking of an indelible ink mark on the left forefinger of the voter, serving as a safeguard against impersonation. It’s important to note that this specialized ink is not readily accessible to the general public. 

Key Events and Numbers Surrounding Voter’s Ink 

1950: NRDC files a patent for election indelible ink. 

1957: A Colombian chemist, José Vicente Azcuénaga Chacón, possibly developed indelible ink and used it in a local election. 

1962: First-time use of indelible ink in Indian elections. 

2016: During India’s currency demonetization, indelible ink was used in marking individuals to prevent multiple exchanges. 

2020: Countries like India, and Indonesia, among others, used indelible ink to mark the COVID vaccinated individual. 

Numbers

30 countries: To which indelible ink is exported by MPVL.
Rs. 55 crores: This is the cost of 30 lakh vials of ink for elections 2024.
86 years ago: MPVL started its business.
90 Countries: Have used indelible ink in elections.
300 People: This can be marked by a 5ml voter ink vial.
Rs. 23.68 lakh: Dividend paid by MPVL to Karnataka government in year 2020-21. 

MPVL Monopoly 

Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL) is a Karnataka government-owned entity (91.39% equity holding). MPVL holds a monopoly over the production of indelible ink in India and exclusively supplies to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and exports it to 30 other countries. With the ECI placing advance orders amounting to Rs 55 crores for the upcoming elections, MPVL’s market dominance remains unchallenged.

Ingredients in the Ink 

The indelible ink comprises three essential components – silver nitrate, water, and a purple dye colourant. Silver nitrate, the key ingredient, ensures the ink’s longevity for at least 15 days. Upon application, the ink reacts with the natural salt in human skin, turning the colour black as silver nitrate in solution turns silver chloride forms. Additionally, biocide is included to prevent skin infections. 

Demonetization, Voting and COVID 

Indelible ink’s significance spans pivotal moments in India’s recent history. During demonetization, it ensured fairness in currency exchanges, marking individuals to prevent fraud and uphold transparency. In voting, it becomes a badge of civic duty. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it took on a new role, marking those vaccinated as a symbol of collective resilience.  

Conclusion 

Indelible Ink’s journey from safeguarding elections to combating fraud during demonetization underscores its vital role in upholding integrity and transparency. Beyond its practical applications, it symbolizes the resilience of democratic processes and the commitment to fairness in governance, making it a fascinating part of India’s socio-political landscape.