Lok Sabha Speaker Urges Western Zone States to Foster Competitive Development for Last-Mile Welfare
In a significant address at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India region zone VII conference in Panaji, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla called upon the western zone states of Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat to engage in healthy competition to accelerate development and ensure welfare reaches the most vulnerable citizens. These states, collectively the highest contributors to India's GDP, were urged to focus on uplifting the weakest segments of society through targeted initiatives.
Emphasis on Aspirational Villages and Competitive Governance
Birla highlighted the need for these states to identify and develop aspirational villages, drawing inspiration from the Prime Minister's aspirational districts program. "We should work competitively, we should take the village most in need and make it our goal to develop it," he stated, encouraging legislators to adopt best practices from one another for coastal region development. He stressed that legislative institutions play a crucial role in building a developed India, with high expectations from elected representatives.
The speaker shared his personal experience, noting that he addressed issues faced during his parliamentary term upon becoming speaker, underscoring the importance of practical governance. "All states need to adopt best practices from one another for development in coastal regions. There should be healthy competition among legislatures of different states to be the best assembly," Birla added, advocating for a collaborative yet competitive approach.
Blend of Heritage, Modernity, and Sustainability in Western States
Birla praised Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat for their unique blend of heritage, modernity, and spirituality, which has historically made their coasts gateways to India for global trade. However, he emphasized the necessity of ensuring development and welfare efforts penetrate the last mile. This call was echoed by other parliamentary leaders at the two-day conference, which brought together senior figures from Western India to discuss governance and development priorities.
Goa Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar expressed pride in hosting the conference for the first time, acknowledging the solemn responsibility for a compact legislature like Goa's. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan pointed out the climatic vulnerability of the west coast, urging the integration of sustainability into development plans. "The west coast is among the most climatically vulnerable and hence it is very important to make sustainability a part of the development plan," he remarked.
Focus on Human Sensitivity and Climate Resilience
Maharashtra Speaker Rahul Narvekar advocated for climate-resilient policies, while Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde proposed the concept of sensitive cities alongside smart cities. "Along with smart cities we will have to work on sensitive cities where even the poorest person gets clean air and water," Shinde said, highlighting the need for inclusive urban planning.
Birla concluded by emphasizing the importance of human sensitivity in the era of artificial intelligence and technology. "Today is the era of artificial intelligence and technology, but human sensitivity is equally important alongside them. Legislators who engage in the best discussions on policies and laws become prominent leaders in their states," he noted, asserting that only leaders attuned to others' needs will prove effective in the long run.
This conference underscores a collective push towards competitive, sustainable, and inclusive development in India's economically vital western region, aiming to bridge gaps and enhance welfare for all citizens.
