The Government of Himachal Pradesh has announced a three-day public holiday for the upcoming Panchayat elections, scheduled for May 26, 28, and 30, 2026. This holiday, declared by the General Administration Department, will apply to all government offices, educational institutions, and businesses in areas where polling occurs, aiming to maximize voter participation. Daily wage workers and employees working outside their native areas will also receive paid leave to vote, provided they present a voting certificate. The election will cover 31,182 posts across various tiers of rural governance, including 3,754 posts for Pradhan and 21,654 Gram Panchayat member seats. The nomination process for candidates will commence on May 7, 2026, with polling for Municipal Corporations and Councils scheduled for May 17 prior to the Panchayat elections. Authorities are making extensive arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of both elections.