CPA India Region Zone-III 21st Annual Conference Plenary Session Held in Mizoram

The 21st Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), India Region, Zone-III, took place in the Mizoram Legislative Assembly session hall on September 28, 2024. The plenary session, chaired by Pu Sharingain Longkumar, Hon’ble Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, focused on the strategic planning and coordination of regional projects. The main agenda was the proposed merging of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) with the North Eastern Council (NEC) for enhanced project planning and execution.

The discussion emphasized how this merger could lead to better project management, ensuring that the Northeast Region sees more coordinated development. Additionally, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Pu Harivansh Narayan Singh, applauded the Government of Mizoram and the CPA for successfully hosting the conference. He urged North Eastern States to play a proactive role in development and coordination, highlighting the importance of streamlining resources for greater efficiency.

Pu Sharingain Longkumar, in his address, underlined the importance of the plenary session in strengthening parliamentary democracy and urged members to contribute ideas that would further the region’s progress. He stressed that for India’s Northeast to thrive, coordinated efforts and cooperation among members were essential.

Another key issue discussed was the inclusion of the Northeast Region in India’s broader vision for trade and cooperation with ASEAN. The members advocated for more significant efforts to integrate the region into bilateral trade agreements, especially through initiatives like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway, the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, and the establishment of international trading outposts. These projects were recognized as crucial for the Northeast’s connectivity and economic growth, with cultural exchange programs also proposed to strengthen relations with ASEAN countries.

Lastly, the session addressed the critical role of the DoNER Ministry and NEC, emphasizing the need for closer alignment between the two bodies to avoid redundancy and ensure efficient project implementation. Proposals were made to set up a Departmental Related Standing Committee (DRSC) in Parliament to oversee the ministry’s schemes and policies, ensuring better outcomes for the region.

Before concluding the session, Pu Lalbiakzama, Hon’ble Speaker of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly, took over as the chair, continuing the discussions and closing the day’s proceedings.