The Punjab Chief Electoral Officer's office has named Indian cricketer Shubman Gill as a 'state icon' for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
In a statement, Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C announced on February 19 that 24-year-old Gill would participate in various voter awareness campaigns to target a 70 percent voter turnout, known as 'Is Vaar 70 Paar'.
Punjab Aims to Break 2019 Voter Turnout Record
Punjab witnessed a voter turnout of 65.96 percent in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections for its 13 seats. Sibin C stated that Gill, a popular figure among sports enthusiasts and youth in Punjab, was chosen as a 'state icon' for the polls.
Gill to Boost Voter Turnout for Lok Sabha Elections
In a meeting with all deputy commissioners of Punjab on February 16, they were instructed to identify areas with low voter turnout during the previous elections. Sibin C expressed confidence that awareness campaigns and appeals by Gill in these areas would motivate voters and boost turnout.
Previously, popular Punjabi singer Tarsem Jassar was also selected as a 'state icon' to conduct similar campaigns. CEO hopes that first-time voters will be influenced by Gill and Tarsem Jassar to exercise their franchise, while urging people of all age groups to vote in large numbers.
The Lok Sabha elections are expected to take place in April-May.
Gill run-out on 91 during 3rd Test vs England
Meanwhile, Indian batter Gill fell short of his century when he was unfortunately run out for 91 during the third Test against England in Rajkot. Starting the day with a score of 65, Gill appeared composed and steady on Day 4 until the fateful run-out incident occurred. Gill's hopes of consecutive centuries were dashed.
In a moment during Tom Hartley's over, Kuldeep Yadav ventured out and struck the ball directly towards wide long-on. England captain Ben Stokes swiftly retrieved the ball and returned it to the bowler in one quick motion. While Kuldeep initially signalled for a single, he later reconsidered. Gill, however, reacted a tad late, forcing him to dive desperately, only to fall short by mere inches. His disappointment was palpable as he trudged back to the pavilion.
India achieved their biggest Test victory by 434 runs against England in Rajkot on February 18 to go 2-1 up in the five-match series.
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