Kathmandu, Jan. 2 -- The Election Commission says it's trying to reduce its spending on poll-related materials by relying mostly on existing stocks and limiting new purchases to articles "absolutely necessary".

Making public its logistical details, the constitutional election management body said it has sufficient stocks of ballot boxes and voting screens with no need for fresh procurement. It also has stocks of materials such as stamps, forms, ink and stamp pads to meet the requirement partially. The procurement will be only for the shortfall.

Of the 51 types of materials necessary for the elections, 37 will be procured from provincial and district election offices as the commission has decentralised the authority, according to the com...