The bugle of Lok Sabha elections has been sounded in India. The Election Commission has announced the dates for the Lok Sabha elections to be held this year. Let us tell you that elections will be held in total 7 phases. The Election Commission is making all preparations for this. But do you know where the ink that is applied on your finger while voting comes from? Do you know how much this ink costs?
Use of this ink in elections
Let us tell you that in 1962 Lok Sabha Elections For the first time, finger ink was introduced to ensure transparency and prevent fake voting. Since then, this solid ink has been used in every Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. When ink was used for the first time, the Election Commission believed that by applying ink no one would be able to vote again and rigging would be prevented.
Which company makes ink?
Let us tell you that till date only one company has been manufacturing this ink used in elections. The name of this company is Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited. It is a Karnataka government company and was started in the year 1937. The foundation of MPVL was laid by Nalwadi Krishna Raja Wadiyar. Initially the name of this company was Mysore Lock Factory. When the country became independent in 1947, this company was taken over by the government and it was named Mysore Lock and Paints Limited.
Company name changed
In the year 1989, the company started varnish production and along with it also changed its name. MPVL has a very important contribution in India’s election journey. From the 70s till today, only this company is allowed to make ink used in elections. The formula of the ink is also a secret and the company cannot share this formula with anyone else. MPVL prepares this ink with the help of National Physical Laboratory.
Which countries does this ink go to?
Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited exports this ink not only to India but also to 25 other countries of the world. At least 700 fingers can be inked from one bottle of ink manufactured by MPVL. According to the information, each vial contains 10 ml ink. According to a report by Financial Express, the price of a 10 ml bottle of ink is around Rs 127. In this context, the price of 1 liter will be around Rs 12,700. Whereas the price of one ml i.e. one drop will be around Rs 12.7.
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