LS Speaker urges climate-resilient strategy for NE

•     Inaugurates CPA Conference in Kohima

•     Urges legislators to uphold order, transparency, and public trust

KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 10 (MExN): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on November 10 called for a comprehensive and sustainable development strategy for the Northeastern region while inaugurating the 22nd Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone–III Conference at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in Kohima.

Highlighting the region’s unique geographical and climate-related challenges, Birla said development planning for the Northeast must integrate climate resilience, green infrastructure, and active community participation. “Such a plan must specifically address emerging climate risks, including natural disasters, which have a profound impact on the region’s livelihoods and infrastructure,” he said. He added that collaborative efforts among the Centre, state governments, and local communities are essential to harness the region’s immense potential while preserving its biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Speaking to the media, he observed that while each level of government functions within defined constitutional frameworks, effective collaboration between the Centre and the States is vital for achieving tangible outcomes. “Constructive dialogue between the Centre and the States not only strengthens governance but also leads to policies that are more responsive, inclusive, and attuned to regional priorities,” he said. Birla noted that such cooperation has already resulted in progress in infrastructure, connectivity, and public service delivery across the region.

Birla also stressed that the Northeastern states, including Nagaland, are key partners in the vision of a self-reliant India. “In line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, concrete efforts are being made to establish the Northeast as a hub of growth and a pivot to India’s Act East policy,” he said. He emphasised that promoting local industries, traditional crafts, and cultural enterprises can strengthen local economies and contribute to the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The Lok Sabha Speaker observed that it was a matter of pride that all legislatures in the Northeastern region are upholding the spirit of participatory democracy while remaining deeply attuned to local needs and aspirations. He said the region is witnessing rapid improvements in road, rail, and air connectivity, which are critical to economic transformation.

Earlier, inaugurating the conference, Birla said legislatures must play a pivotal role in transforming public opinion into policy. “The responsibility of legislatures extends beyond law-making—it is to translate the aspirations and concerns of the people into actionable policies,” he stated. He urged legislators to ensure that citizens’ voices are meaningfully reflected in policymaking and to make legislative institutions more transparent and responsive.

The two-day conference is being held under the theme “Policy, Progress, and Citizens: Legislature as Catalysts of Change.” Birla said meaningful deliberations during the conference should lead to action plans to make Northeastern legislatures more empowered and efficient.

The Speaker also underlined the role of technology in enhancing democratic governance, noting that most legislatures have transitioned to paperless and digital systems. He praised the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for becoming a fully paperless legislature, calling it “a pioneering model of digital governance in India.” He said such initiatives improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.

At the same time, he cautioned against the misuse of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). Legislators, he said, must ensure that AI is used in ways that strengthen transparency and safeguard the integrity of democratic institutions.

Birla urged political parties to uphold the dignity of legislative institutions by ensuring smooth and orderly functioning. Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the conference, he said, “Democracy provides ample avenues to raise issues, express concerns, and engage in debate through peaceful, structured, and informed discussions.” He cautioned that planned disruptions undermine democratic processes and deprive citizens of meaningful deliberation and accountability.

Referring to the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, scheduled to commence on December 1, Birla urged all parties to ensure the smooth conduct of House proceedings. He said legislatures must play a more active and constructive role in ensuring transparent governance and welfare-oriented policymaking.

Birla expressed confidence that the conference would yield substantive recommendations to strengthen democratic institutions, refine legislative practices, and enhance public trust in governance. He also extended his greetings to the people of Nagaland ahead of the Hornbill Festival, describing it as a global celebration of Nagaland’s “culture, resilience, artistry, and community spirit.”

Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Nagaland Legislative Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkümer, and Nagaland Minister for Parliamentary Affairs K.G. Kenye also addressed the gathering.

Legislatures from seven of the eight Northeastern states under CPA Zone–III participated in the event, with 12 presiding officers, including seven Speakers and five Deputy Speakers, along with Members of Parliament and MLAs from the region.

The conference also featured two sub-themes: “Role of Legislatures in Achieving Viksit Bharat @ 2047” and “Climate Change – In the Light of Recent Cloudbursts and Landslides in Parts of the Northeast Region.”