Lok Sabha Speaker, Sh. Om Birla said that urban local bodies play a vital role in strengthening the foundations of democracy. He said that elected representatives of urban local bodies must fulfill their responsibilities with a clear focus on the vision of Developed India 2047, adopting innovative approaches, strong leadership, and practical skills.
He urged all representatives to take a pledge “My corporation, my council, my municipality, and my city should be counted among the cleanest and most beautiful cities in the world.” Sh. Om Birla was addressing public representatives from across the country after inaugurating the two-day National Conference on ‘Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and the Role of Urban Local Bodies in Nation Building’, held at the ICAT-2 Campus Auditorium in Manesar on Thursday.
As the Chief Guest, Sh. Om Birla formally inaugurated the conference with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. The event was graced by several dignitaries including Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh. Harvinder Kalyan, Deputy Speaker, Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, Industry and Commerce Minister, Rao Narbir Singh, Urban Local Bodies Minister, Sh Vipul Goel, and Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, Sh. Utpal Kumar Singh.
The Lok Sabha Speaker said that if urban local body representatives step forward with a positive attitude, they can undoubtedly bring dynamic and energetic changes to urban areas. He said that urban local bodies, as the smallest units of the nation, are now playing a strong and vital role in steering the country in a new direction.
He added that the gathering aims to explore ways to strengthen India’s democratic institutions for a brighter future. Over the course of the two-day conference, urban local body representatives will engage in discussions, share innovative ideas, and contribute their valuable suggestions and experiences—all in the interest of realizing the vision of a New India and Developed India.
Sh. Birla highlighted the incomparable role urban local bodies play in nation-building, as public representatives listen to the concerns of people at the grassroots level and work towards effective solutions. He said that in a democracy, along with the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha, urban and Panchayat institutions form strong links connecting the government with common citizens.
While the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha enact laws for public welfare, the executive actively participates in their implementation. He said that local self-governance is a crucial pillar of democracy, with urban local bodies playing a key role in taking democracy to its deepest roots.