Guwahati, Nov 10: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday lauded all legislatures of the Northeastern region for upholding the tradition of collective deliberation and decision-making while staying deeply connected to local needs and aspirations.
Addressing the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region, Zone–III Conference at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in Kohima, Birla said that Northeastern legislatures have shown exemplary commitment to transparency, accountability, and participatory democracy, even as the region witnesses rapid progress in infrastructure, particularly in road, rail, and air connectivity.
“Legislatures in the Northeast are setting new standards of democratic engagement and good governance. Their focus on inclusive growth, regional aspirations, and people’s participation reflects the true spirit of India’s democracy,” Birla said.
The Speaker noted that concrete efforts are underway to position the Northeast as a hub of growth and a pivotal link in India’s Act East Policy. Highlighting the region’s “vibrant culture, rich traditions, and natural beauty,” he said these unique assets make the Northeast integral to India’s development story.
“Promoting local products, arts, culture, and traditional crafts can play a key role in advancing Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Birla said, urging legislatures to frame policies that foster industry, entrepreneurship, and community-led economic empowerment.
He expressed confidence that the two-day CPA conference would produce substantive recommendations to strengthen democratic institutions, refine legislative practices, and enhance public trust in governance.
Calling for stronger Centre–State collaboration, the Lok Sabha Speaker emphasized that constructive dialogue between both levels of government is vital to ensure responsive and inclusive governance.
“While each level of government operates within defined constitutional frameworks, effective collaboration is essential for achieving tangible outcomes,” he observed.
Birla pointed out that enhanced cooperation in recent years has already led to remarkable progress in infrastructure, connectivity, and public service delivery across the Northeast.
Stressing the need for a comprehensive action plan for the holistic development of the Northeastern states, Birla highlighted the importance of factoring in the region’s unique geography and climate-related vulnerabilities.
He called for development strategies that integrate climate resilience, green infrastructure, and active community participation, particularly in light of the growing risks of cloudbursts and landslides that disrupt livelihoods and infrastructure.
“Development in the Northeast must balance progress with preservation. Climate resilience and community participation are key to sustainable and long-term growth,” he said.
Commending the digital transformation of Northeast legislatures, Birla described the Nagaland Legislative Assembly’s shift to a fully paperless system as a pioneering model of digital governance in India.
He said such initiatives enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, bringing citizens closer to democratic processes. However, he cautioned against the irresponsible use of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“AI must be used responsibly — to strengthen democracy, not distort it,” Birla warned, urging legislators to adopt ethical frameworks for AI integration in governance.
Reaffirming his call for decorum and cooperation, the Speaker urged all political parties to ensure smooth and productive conduct of the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, beginning December 1.
The conference, themed “Policy, Progress & People: Legislatures as Catalysts of Change,” also discussed two sub-themes: Role of Legislatures in Achieving Viksit Bharat @ 2047 and Climate Change – In Light of Recent Cloudbursts and Landslides in the Northeast.
The event brought together presiding officers and delegates from seven Northeastern states, including Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Nagaland Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkümer, and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs K.G. Kenye.
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