Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today inaugurated the 22nd Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), India Region Zone-III, at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in Kohima. In his inaugural address, Mr Birla said the North Eastern region is known for its rich culture, diversity, and strong democratic values. He noted that the region is progressing as a vibrant democracy with continuous improvements in connectivity, infrastructure, and emerging opportunities. The Speaker lauded the North Eastern Legislative Assemblies for their unity and for framing policies suited to regional needs, paving the way for prosperity and progress.
He emphasised the need to promote regional development and industrial growth while enhancing accountability and transparency in governance through technology and artificial intelligence. Mr Birla said it was encouraging that most Assemblies in the region have become paperless, share good practices, and experience minimal disruptions in proceedings. He urged the Legislatures to deliberate on expanding developmental opportunities, adding that the people of the North East are vibrant and full of potential.
The Lok Sabha Speaker believes that collective dialogue and public participation are key to achieving inclusive and sustainable development. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in his address, said it is imperative that the legislatures reaffirm their shared commitment to the ideals of parliamentary democracy and cooperative federalism. He noted that the CPA Zone -III must continue to play a proactive role in shaping policies that promote inclusive development and greater integration of the North-Eastern region with the rest of the country and beyond. Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, said the Union Government deeply respects India’s diverse cultural identities and remains committed to preserving them while pursuing economic growth.
He noted that India’s young and aspirational population seeks to benefit from the nation’s development journey, emphasising that legislatures and governments must continuously engage with society and frame policies that address its needs. Mr Harivansh expressed hope that the people of Nagaland and the entire North East will embrace the region’s growing focus on opportunities and infrastructure development. Later , after the programme, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the conference monolith and visited the exhibition stalls set up by various departments.
