Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh emphasized the critical role of dialogue in strengthening democracy during the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II Conference in Chandigarh. He stated that under the leadership of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, sustained efforts are being made to foster dialogue, cooperation, and knowledge-sharing among legislators across the country.
Key highlights of the conference
Addressing a press conference at the conclusion of the two-day event, Harivansh was joined by Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan and Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Mody. He noted that nearly 40 speakers from diverse political parties and ideological backgrounds participated in serious discussions with a common objective, unanimously endorsing key resolutions.
Focus on parliamentary forums
Harivansh emphasized that the CPA and other parliamentary forums regularly review decisions taken in previous meetings to assess progress, identify gaps, and ensure effective implementation. “Continuous consultations with state legislatures are undertaken to strengthen these initiatives and improve their outcomes,” he said.
Resolutions adopted
During the valedictory session, presiding officers unanimously adopted four resolutions. The conference highlighted that an informed society, strong democratic institutions, capable public representatives, and the wider use of digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven decision-making can make public service delivery more transparent, efficient, and accessible.
Enhancing dialogue among legislators
Harivansh added that one of the major initiatives has been to enhance dialogue and cooperation among nearly 5,000 legislators, including Members of Legislative Assemblies and Legislative Councils across India. These interactions provide a valuable platform for discussing national challenges and sharing best practices.
Governor's call to action
Haryana Governor Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh called upon legislators and public representatives to dedicate themselves to the four foundational pillars of the Viksit Bharat programme—Youth, Poor, Women, and Farmers. He stated that the vision of an inclusive and developed India is a collective national responsibility. “Our democracy is about accountability with inclusion, which ensures that the benefits of development reach the last person in society,” he said. He urged delegates to invest their energy, time, and resources in empowering those who remain less privileged.
