US Elections 2024: Key Indian standard timings, polling hours, and when to expect results
US Elections 2024: Key Indian standard timings, polling hours, and when to expect results
As November 5, 2024, approaches, global audiences, especially in India, are preparing to track one of the world's most significant political events. Here's a breakdown of the essential timings in Indian Standard Time (IST) to help you stay updated as the US Presidential Election unfolds.
IST Polling Timings: When Does Voting Begin and End?
The official Election Day in the US is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Polling hours vary by state, typically opening between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM local time. In IST, voting will start around 4:30 PM on November 5 and continue until approximately 6:30 AM on November 6.
IST Exit Poll Timings: What to Expect?
Exit polls, which provide early insights into voter preferences, will begin around 5 PM EST on November 5, translating to 3:30 AM IST on November 6. These preliminary indications can help gauge the likely direction of the vote.
IST Vote Counting Begins:
Vote counting will commence as soon as the polls close in each state, with the earliest closures around 4:30 AM IST on Wednesday, November 6. Media outlets may start announcing predictions based on early data, but it could take several days for a conclusive result due to mail-in ballots and vote validation processes.
When Will the Results Be Announced?
While initial projections might emerge by the evening of November 6 (IST), a definitive winner may not be declared immediately. Previous elections have shown that closely contested races can extend the announcement timeline by several days.
Recap of Key IST Times:
Polling hours (IST): Start at 4:30 PM on November 5; expected to end by 6:30 AM on November 6.
Exit Polls (IST): Begin at 3:30 AM on November 6.
Vote Counting (IST): Starts at 4:30 AM on November 6, with the first results likely by the evening.
By tracking these IST-specific timings, viewers in India can stay engaged and informed as the US Presidential Election influences global markets, policies, and international relations.
