Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II Conference, hosted by the Haryana Legislative Assembly on June 8 and 9, has set a new benchmark for grand execution and outstanding hospitality. Expressing his deep gratitude, Vidhan Sabha Speaker Harvinder Kalyan sent special letters of appreciation to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Haryana Governor Prof. Asim Kumar Ghosh, and Chief Minister Nayab Singh for elevating the dignity of the event. Kalyan also thanked the presiding officers and public representatives from five northern states and various state legislatures, noting that their meaningful discussions significantly strengthened democratic dialogue. The conference focused on tackling future challenges and carving out pathways to realize the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat-2047,’ emphasizing that an aware society is just as crucial as active legislators in achieving this dream.
The two-day summit drew presiding officers, deputy presiding officers, and public representatives from 13 legislatures across five northern states, with nearly 40 participants actively sharing their perspectives. Attendees frequently referenced lines from the Haryana state song, “Atithi Devo Bhava, Yahan Seva Dharm Nibhana,” to laud the region’s rich traditions of hospitality. The Speaker observed that during the inaugural session, the Haryana Legislative Assembly floor resembled a “Mini India,” bringing together representatives from diverse states and political parties on a unified platform—a setup that received immense praise from the visiting dignitaries.
At the conclusion of the conference, four written resolutions were passed, along with an unwritten motion passed by voice vote expressing collective gratitude to Speaker Harvinder Kalyan for the flawless arrangements. Kalyan spent Wednesday personally bidding farewell to the guests, ensuring liaison officers were deployed to assist every attendee. He extended credits to Chief Minister Nayab Singh, the state government, and various administrative departments, attributing the event’s grand success to the round-the-clock dedication of the officials and staff. He also recognized the media for their constructive coverage, which effectively transmitted constitutional values to the public.
A major highlight near the main hall was the ‘Wall of Memory,’ where representatives left unique visitor comments, describing the platform as an incredible learning exercise and a magnificent experience for democratic reflection. Additionally, on the first day, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the Parliamentary Research and Innovation Centre to provide lawmakers and committee members with factual research, analysis, and reference materials. A newly opened Democracy Gallery in the assembly complex aims to introduce citizens, especially students, to the working of the legislature and the Indian Constitution. Furthermore, aligned with environmental sustainability, eco-friendly e-buses were deployed for commuting, which were utilized by the Governor, Chief Minister, and presiding officers alike. The initial day wrapped up at the Tagore Theatre with a specially scripted play titled “Samvidhan Ke Nayak,” performed by the Raas Kala Manch, designed to raise awareness about civic duties and constitutional ideals.
