Lucknow, Aug. 25 -- Chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Monday visited his alma mater Colvin Taluqdars' College in Lucknow and advised students to verify the sources and authenticity of information before accepting or sharing it, particularly in today's social media landscape. "Before accepting any information, it is essential to check its source and verify its authenticity," Kumar stated. On the first day of his two-day visit to Lucknow, he discussed India's democratic system, the electoral process, the reliability of electronic voting machines and the importance of first-time voters, according to an official statement. He said Indian EVMs are manufactured by public sector companies and do not have internet, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi connectivity. Reflecting on his own student days in 1979, he shared fond memories of his teachers and school, highlighting their significant role in shaping his journey. Recalling the period when he was preparing to go to the United States, Kumar said his mother's wish and his attachment to the motherland motivated him to stay in India and pursue public service. He subsequently cleared the civil services examination and began his administrative career in the Kerala cadre of the Indian Administrative Service. He said his journey in public service eventually led him to the role of chief election commissioner in the world's largest democracy. He encouraged young people to actively engage in the democratic process and referred to Article 326 of the Constitution while urging students who have reached the age of 18 to register as voters. The commission provides voter registration facilities through its digital platforms, he said. "Young people are the most important force behind the democratic future of the country," he said. HTC...