'Instead of electronic voting machines (EVM), the traditional method of voting through ballot papers and ballot boxes are being used in the politically important elections to the local bodies,' said state election commissioner Y.P. Singh.

For the first time, photo identity cards have been made compulsory for voters when they exercise their franchise.

Central paramilitary forces as well as Tripura State Rifles have been deployed in 2,243 polling stations in different parts of the state, while Assam Rifles have established over 12 temporary operation bases in the terrorist infested interior areas to intensify counter-insurgency operations.

The Border Security Force has also been alerted by the state government to check infiltration through the 856-km long India-Bangladesh border, part of which is porous, riverine and unfenced.

The Tripura government has declared a holiday Monday to enable the voters to exercise their franchise in the Panchayat elections.