Dr. S.Y.Quraishi assumed charge as the 17th Chief  Election Commissioner of India on 30th July 2010. Dr. Quraishi earlier held the position of  Election Commissioner since 30th June 2006. He has been already involved, as part of the three member Commission, with control, direction and superintendence of the conduct of elections to the offices of President and Vice-President of India, General Elections to the Lok Sabha  – 2009, besides elections in a large number of states. In the management of elections, Dr. Quraishi has brought a special focus on people’s participation, voters’ education and youth involvement in the electoral process through scientific research and interventions. He has been an ardent proponent for lending strength to the grassroots level election functionaries.