At the recent India International Conference on Democracy and Election Management (IICDEM), while welcoming delegates from over 70 countries, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar showcased how India has practised democracy for over three thousand years.
During the conference, Sanskrit hymns from the Atharva Veda era (c. 1200–1000 BCE) were played for the delegates, highlighting the evolution of democracy in Rig Vedic society through the Sabha (assembly) and Samiti (council). 10th-century stone inscriptions discovered at the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur, Kancheepuram District, were also displayed. These inscriptions clearly indicate that a structured system of local self-governance, similar to modern systems, was practised in the past.
The conference also highlighted Vaishali, home to a Stupa and Ashoka Pillar where the Licchavis established the world's first Republic in the 6th century BCE. The Licchavi Republic featured a General Assembly representing the people and a Council of Ministers, with mechanisms in place to prevent the monopolising of power.
India is the world's largest democracy, managing elections for over 900 million voters, a feat that deeply impressed the conference delegates.
Held from January 21–23, 2026, the conference was attended by election management officials, senior officers, and ambassadors from various nations. The event highlighted India's growing role as a global leader in electoral management and demonstrated that ancient wisdom and modern technology can work together harmoniously.
Organised under India's Chairship of International IDEA, the conference served as an opportunity to showcase the country's long history of democratic governance. For the participating delegates, it was not merely about learning India's modern election processes, but realising that the world's largest democracy stands firmly on foundations laid over three thousand years ago.
