Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today inaugurated the first National Level Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies in the States and Union Territories at the International Centre for Automotive Technology, Manesar in Haryana. The theme of the two-day Conference is – Role of Urban Local Bodies in Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and Nation Building.
Speaking on the occasion, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that Urban Local Bodies are one of the strongest pillars of democracy. He said strengthening these institutions will help fulfil the needs and aspirations of the people. He added that it is the responsibility of everyone to strengthen the democratic institutions of the country. He also emphasised for smooth conduct of the proceedings in the Houses, ranging from Parliament to the Urban Local Bodies, to further strengthen the country’s democracy. Mr. Birla added, disruption and adjournment in the House, in turn, hurt the aspirations of the people.
Speaking on the occasion, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh said that the subject which has been chosen for discussion in the conference will help strengthen the roots of democracy. He said, strengthening of the urban local bodies in the States will in turn make the country’s democracy more strong. He said the Narendra Modi government has identified 100 cities to make them develop into Smart Cities, and the Haryana government is working on developing Faridabad and Karnal as Smart Cities.
The conference aims to serve as an important platform for outlining the important role of Urban Local Bodies in a rapidly urbanising country. It also aims to strengthen democratic institutions, share best practices, and explore and highlight innovative approaches to urban governance in the contemporary era. Delegates participating in the event will deliberate on critical issues, including making municipal governance more effective in fulfilling the constitutional mandate and improving public delivery and the quality of life of citizens.
Women’s empowerment and the contribution of local urban bodies in achieving the goal of Developed India 2047 will also be discussed in the conference. On the occasion, Lok Sabha General Secretary Utpal Kumar Singh and Haryana Legislative Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan were also present.
