Aizawl, Sept 27:   The 21st Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone III commenced today at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly in Aizawl.

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, who is also the Chairman of the CPA India Region, inaugurated the event. Key dignitaries, including Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh, Nagaland Assembly Speaker and Chairman of India Region Zone III Shri Sharingain Longkumer, and Mizoram Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma, were present at the inaugural session.

In his address, Shri Om Birla highlighted the recent progress in the northeastern region, emphasizing the ongoing construction of a railway line in Aizawl as a vital infrastructure project. He noted the importance of improving road and air connectivity to spur economic growth in the Northeast and across India. The Lok Sabha Speaker stated that increased connectivity could unlock the region’s potential in agriculture, arts, culture, and tourism, attracting more investments from foreign stakeholders.

Shri Birla further stressed the responsibility of elected representatives to be the voice of the people and address their concerns effectively. He also underscored the need to maintain the sanctity of legislative assemblies, encouraging constructive debates that uphold democratic values and contribute to national development.

Chief Minister of Mizoram Shri Lalduhoma, in his speech, discussed how legislative sanctity fosters trust between governments and citizens. He emphasized that fair and transparent law-making strengthens the rule of law, ensuring equal justice and maintaining peace and order. Shri Lalduhoma also noted that strong legislative frameworks lead to effective governance by promoting accountability and efficient administration.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh also delivered an address during the inaugural session. Shri Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Assembly, provided the keynote address, while Shri Lalbiakzama, Speaker of the Mizoram Assembly, gave the welcome speech.

The afternoon plenary session focused on the topic “Inclusion of the Northeast Region in the India-ASEAN Vision for Trade and Cooperation.” The theme of this year’s conference is “Fostering Legislative Sanctity.”