Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Attends 21st CPA India Region Zone III Conference in Aizawl

Aizawl : The 21st Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), India Region Zone-III, commenced today at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Session Hall in Aizawl. The conference was honored by the presence of Hon’ble Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, who is also the Chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, India Region. The event was also graced by Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Assembly and Chairman of India Region Zone-III, and Shri Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram.

In his inaugural speech, Shri Om Birla highlighted the recent strides in development across the northeastern region. He observed, during his arrival in Aizawl yesterday, the ongoing construction of a railway line, which he identified as a critical step toward enhancing infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of improved road and air connectivity for the economic growth of both the Northeast and the entire country. He also noted that many foreign investors are showing interest in India, and with better connectivity, the Northeast’s vast potential in agriculture, art, culture, and tourism could attract significant investments.

The Lok Sabha Speaker further stated that as elected representatives, it is their responsibility to be the voice of the people in a democracy. “We must endeavor to address their needs and requirements to the best of our abilities,” he said. Shri Om Birla also emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity and smooth functioning of the legislative assembly, adding that every debate in the House should be constructive, upholding democratic values, and contributing to the nation’s progress.

In his address, Shri Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram, spoke on the significance of legislative sanctity in fostering trust between the government and its citizens. He explained that when laws are created fairly and transparently, people are more likely to engage with and support democratic processes. This reinforces the rule of law, ensuring that justice is accessible and that laws are applied equally to all citizens, which is vital for maintaining peace and order. Shri Lalduhoma also reiterated that strong legislative frameworks enable effective governance, promoting accountability and efficient administration.

During today’s inaugural session, Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, also addressed the gathering. Shri Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Assembly and Chairman of India Region Zone-III, delivered the keynote address, while Shri Lalbiakzama, Speaker of the Mizoram Assembly, delivered the welcome address.

The plenary session and discussions on the topic ‘Inclusion of the Northeast Region in the India-ASEAN Vision for Trade and Cooperation’ followed in the afternoon.

The theme of this conference is ‘Fostering Legislative Sanctity’.