Annual CPA India Region Zone-II Conference Inaugurated in Dharamshala
DHARAMSALA (HP): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today emphasized the need for adopting innovation and technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance efficiency and transparency in legislative processes. He was speaking at the inauguration of the Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), India Region Zone-II, held at Tapovan, Dharamshala, HP North India .
Birla highlighted that extensive use of AI in the Parliament of India is playing a significant role in improving parliamentary functioning. “The use of AI and other digital tools can bridge the gap between the public and legislative bodies, making governance more responsive and transparent, ” he said.
Calling on public representatives to embrace technology and best practices, Birla said that effective use of resources, positive debates, and well-informed discussions not only strengthen democratic institutions but also enhance the image of legislators and legislatures. He stressed that sharing innovations and adopting a collaborative approach across state legislatures is key to advancing democratic governance.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “One Nation, One Legislative Platform” initiative, the Speaker expressed confidence that a unified digital platform connecting all state legislatures would soon become a reality. He noted that such a platform would streamline legislative debates, budget discussions, and law-making processes, while also fostering healthy competition and innovation among states.
Birla reiterated the Parliament’s responsibility to share its technological advancements with state legislatures, promoting good governance and accountability across all levels of the federal structure.
Highlighting the need for inclusive development, the Speaker urged legislators to work proactively for the welfare of marginalized communities. “Elected representatives must lead with sensitivity and effectiveness to meet the growing expectations of citizens, ” he said.
He also called upon elected bodies—from Gram Panchayats to Municipalities and State Assemblies—to become centres of dialogue, innovation, and excellence. “Constructive dialogue empowers institutions and is vital for achieving economic and social transformation, ” he added.
Citing India’s democratic legacy, Birla recalled that the first conference of presiding officers was held in Shimla in 1921 and praised Himachal Pradesh’s contribution to democratic reforms. He lauded the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly for becoming the first paperless assembly in the country and commended the people of the state for their patriotism and commitment to national service.
Birla concluded by quoting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: “The success of any constitution or institution depends on the conduct of its members, ” emphasizing the need for preserving the dignity and credibility of legislative institutions.
The inaugural session was also addressed by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh, Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Kuldeep Singh Pathania, and State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harsh Vardhan Chauhan.
Presiding officers from CPA Zone-II states—Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi—along with delegates from Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and other state legislative bodies were also present on the occasion.