Here’s how India picks its President: All you need to know

The Election Commission said voting to elect the new President will take place on July 17, and counting will be held on July 20.

The election for India’s 14th President will be held on July 17, the Election Commission announced on Wednesday.

The term of the incumbent President, Pranab Mukherjee, ends on July 24. (HT file)

Incumbent President Pranab Mukherjee completes his five-year term on July 24.

“The last date for filing of nomination is June 28 and counting will take place in Delhi on July 20,” chief election commissioner Nasim Zaidi said. A notification will be issued on June 14.

The electoral college to pick a President comprises of all elected MPs and MLAs. Each vote also has a weightage or value depending on the size of the population he or she represents.

MPs have the highest value — 708 — for each vote, while the value of an MLA’s vote depends on the population of the state.

Figuring out the Presidential election: