In Line with SVEEP Initiative, HRAWI Rolls Out ‘Pledge to Vote’ Campaign Ahead of 2026 BMC Elections

Mumbai, Jan 13: Reinforcing its commitment to civic responsibility and democratic participation, the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI has launched its ‘Pledge to Vote’ campaign for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Elections scheduled on January 15, 2026. The initiative aligns with the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme and builds on the successful campaign conducted during the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024. This time, the Association has expanded the campaign’s scope, urging its extensive network of hotels and restaurants to actively encourage voter awareness and participation among patrons, employees and the wider community. A detailed advisory circular has been issued to members, outlining practical measures to amplify the campaign’s reach.

“As a responsible industry body, we believe that encouraging voter participation is not just a civic duty but a collective responsibility. The ‘Pledge to Vote’ campaign is about creating awareness at the grassroots level. The hospitality sector interacts with millions of citizens every day, and through this campaign, we aim to use that reach to strengthen democratic engagement ahead of the BMC elections,” says Mr Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI.

Member establishments have been encouraged to prominently display ‘Pledge to Vote’ placards, reminding guests of the polling date and the importance of exercising their democratic right. To further motivate participation, members have also been advised to extend select discounts or offers to patrons who present proof of voting through the indelible ink mark.

“Our establishments are ideal touch-points for voter outreach. Small reminders, visible messaging and positive reinforcement, whether through signage, social media, or small voter-appreciation incentives, can go a long way in motivating citizens to vote. We urge our members to actively participate and help build a culture of informed and enthusiastic voting,” concludes Mr Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson, HRAWI.

About the Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI is a 75 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include Restaurants and Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. With membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and is considered to be the voice of the Hospitality Industry. The association is part of the national body of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata.