Himachals first-time voters to vote on employment issue

Youths, who will be casting their votes for the first time, in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls, have said their choice will be for the candidate who can provide education, better health and jobs.

Shimla, Dec 15 : Youths, who will be casting their votes for the first time, in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls, have said their choice will be for the candidate who can provide education, better health and jobs.

Out of the total 4,604,362 voters in the State, over 18,000 youth will be casting their votes for the first time.

According to these young voters, they have resolved to vote for the candidate who will work for the benefit of youth and assures proper education, health facilities and employment opportunities.

"I will vote for a candidate who will be able to meet the younger generation's aspirations. The one who will work for education and our benefit," said Suhel, a first-time voter from Solan.

"I will cast my vote for a candidate who will develop the fields of education, health and employment in Himachal. The candidate should provide employment opportunities especially to the younger generation," said Gopal, a first time voter from Mandi.

As for the young ladies, who will be casting their maiden votes, they intend to elect the candidate who will work for uplift of women.

All political parties in the State have made several tall promises to woo the young voters in the second phase of the polls, slated for December 19.

In all, 336 candidates are in the fray for the 68-member State Assembly.

The term of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly is due to expire on March 9, 2008.

ANI