Chandigarh, June 10: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II Conference, held on June 8–9 under the aegis of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, set a new benchmark for grand organisation and excellent hospitality.
For this, Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan wrote letters expressing special gratitude to Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Chairman Sh. Harivansh, Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, and Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini for enhancing the dignity of the conference. The Speaker also thanked presiding officers and representatives from all five states of the North Zone and various state legislative assemblies who participated in the conference. Sh. Kalyan said that all participants contributed meaningfully to democratic dialogue through constructive discussions. Deliberations were held on future challenges, exploring pathways to realise the vision of “Viksit Bharat–2047”. Speakers emphasized that legislators play a crucial role in achieving this vision, while an aware society is equally essential.
The two-day conference saw participation from presiding and deputy presiding officers and representatives from 13 legislative assemblies, including five North Zone states, with around 40 participants presenting their views on the designated theme. They particularly appreciated Haryana’s hospitality tradition, referencing the state song line “Atithi Devo Bhava, yahan seva dharm nibhana”.
The Speaker said that during the inaugural session, the Haryana Vidhan Sabha appeared as a “mini India”, where representatives from different states and parties were seen seated together. Participants highly appreciated this arrangement.
At the conclusion of the conference, four written resolutions were adopted, while an informal resolution appreciating the excellent hospitality and well-organised arrangements was also passed by voice vote in favour of Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan.
On Wednesday, the Speaker remained engaged in personally seeing off the guests with respect. He had deployed liaison officers for assistance to each guest and personally ensured that everyone’s needs were taken care of. He also expressed special gratitude to Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, the state government, and all departments involved. He said that the tireless efforts and dedication of Haryana Government officials and Vidhan Sabha staff made the event grand and successful. He also thanked the media, stating that journalists played a constructive role in bringing the conference deliberations to the public, thereby strengthening faith in constitutional values.
Box: Wall of Memory Becomes Centre of Attraction
A “Wall of Memory” was set up near the main conference hall, where public representatives from different states shared their remarks in a unique way. Participants described the platform as an extraordinary learning experience and an unparalleled expression of democratic values. They called it a commendable initiative and a great experience, also describing it as a well-organised platform for meaningful reflection on the future. A large number of participants shared their experiences here.
Parliamentary Research and Innovation Centre
On the first day of the conference, Lok Sabha Speaker Sh. Om Birla inaugurated the “Parliamentary Research and Innovation Centre”. This centre will provide legislators, committee chairpersons, and members with fact-based research, analysis, and reference material. It will support effective functioning of legislative and parliamentary work and promote awareness of best parliamentary and legislative practices.
Democracy Gallery
On the first day, the “Democracy Gallery” was also inaugurated within the Assembly premises. Its objective is to familiarize citizens, especially students and youth, with the Indian Constitution, democratic values, and the functioning of the legislature. The gallery presents the role of the Assembly, legislative procedures, and the importance of democratic institutions in a simple and engaging manner.
Environment Protection Initiative
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for judicious use of resources and reduced fuel consumption, transportation arrangements for delegates and officials were made using e-buses on selected routes during the conference. This initiative not only reduced petroleum consumption but also resulted in significant savings in transport costs through shared mobility. A large number of presiding officers, including the Governor and Chief Minister, travelled in these e-buses.
Theatrical Presentation
On Monday, after the inaugural session, a special theatrical performance titled “Samvidhan Ke Nayak” based on constitutional values was staged at Tagore Theatre, Sector-18. A specially written script was prepared for the play to promote awareness of constitutional ideals, values, and civic duties. The performance was presented by artists of Ras Kala Manch. It was attended by Governors of both states, the Lok Sabha Speaker, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Chief Minister, Vidhan Sabha Speaker, ministers and members.
