RAI takes up the cause of voter awareness

Retail very often is more than just a transactional platform, especially today when it is increasingly being seen as a community space. Also, being an industry that is among the biggest employers in the country and among the biggest contributors to the national GDP, retail has a big role to play, both economically and socially.  Given this, it is not surprising that the Retailers Association of India (RAI), the apex body representing retailers across the country, has announced that it is supporting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Voter Awareness Initiative, ahead of the Maharashtra State Assembly Elections starting on November 20, 2024.  

RAI says that through this effort, it is aiming to encourage its members to promote the importance of voting and inspire citizens to actively participate in the democratic process. “As the unified voice of Indian retailers, RAI plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the modern retail industry. With over 13,000 members operating approximately 600,000 stores nationwide, RAI is committed to promoting practices that not only benefit its members but also contribute to the broader economic landscape,” says the statement.  

Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), highlighted the crucial role of the voter awareness initiative, stating, “At RAI, we understand that our role extends beyond the retail sector, we have a responsibility to encourage civic engagement among our members and to help spread awareness among employees and customers, ensuring that optimal awareness is created. Voting is not just a right; it is the cornerstone of our democracy. By empowering citizens to exercise their franchise, we strengthen the very foundation of our society. We applaud the BMC for its proactive efforts in raising awareness about the significance of voting.”  

As part of this initiative, RAI will be doing the following:  

1. Comprehensive Voter Awareness: RAI will inform all members about the importance of voting and encourage them to educate their employees and customers about their voting rights.  

2. Special Offers for Voters: Members of RAI will be encouraged to extend special offers to customers who exercise their franchise on November 20, 2024, as a way to motivate civic participation.  

3. Social Media Outreach: RAI will actively utilize its social media platforms to spread awareness about voting and civic responsibility, reaching a wider audience and emphasizing the significance of participating in elections.