ElectionIQ: What Is Indelible Ink? Who Makes It?

For over five decades, a unique violet ink has silently stood guard against electoral fraud, ensuring fair and democratic elections worldwide. This tiny mark, made by indelible ink, has been an integral part of elections since time immemorial.

But how many of us know the story behind the use of this ink in use during elections across the country, including the upcoming Lok Sabha polls 2024?

What is indelible ink?

Electoral ink, indelible ink, electoral stain or phosphoric ink, commonly referred to as "Voter's Ink," is applied to a voter's finger during elections to prevent fraudulent activities such as multiple voting and other malpractices.

Who makes it?

This ink is supplied by the Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL), an undertaking of the Government of Karnataka.

Born from the vision of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, MPVL began its journey in 1931 by harnessing local resources like forest wax to produce sealing wax. By 1947, under the Government of Karnataka, it transitioned to paint production. In 1962, a landmark moment arrived: the development of the now-iconic indelible ink.

When was it introduced?

In 1962, the Election Commission of India (ECI), in partnership with the Union Law Ministry, The National Physical Laboratory (NPL), and NRDC, entered into an agreement with Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL) to supply this ink for Parliament, Assembly, and other General Elections across all states in India.

This ingenious ink, turning black upon contact with the skin, remains visible for weeks, effectively preventing double voting. This innovation, crucial for countries with evolving identification systems, propelled MPVL as the sole authorized supplier of election ink in India and a sought-after partner for young democracies worldwide.

Why does the ink not fade?

The ink usually includes silver nitrate, which reacts to ultraviolet light (a component of sunlight), causing a stain on the skin. This stain is resistant to washing and fades away gradually as new skin cells replace the old ones. The concentration of silver nitrate in the ink ranges from 7% to 25%.

Nestled amidst 16 acres of greenery, MPVL, with its 100-strong workforce, embodies continuous innovation. Every few years, the ink formula undergoes rigorous testing and refinements to maintain its effectiveness and adapt to changing needs.

The next time you see that telltale violet mark on a voter's finger, remember the dedicated team at MPVL, tirelessly ensuring the sanctity of democratic processes across the world.