Participants of 22nd CPA Conference plant tree saplings at NLA Secretariat Complex, Kohima on November 11. (Inset) Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, Harivansh addresses the concluding session.
Harivansh urges proactive legislative role in tackling climate change at CPA conference
Kohima, November 11 (MExN): The 22nd Annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone–III Conference concluded today at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) with lawmakers from across the North East reaffirming their commitment to strengthening parliamentary democracy and promoting sustainable, inclusive development in the region.
In his closing address, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, Harivansh, called upon legislators to take a proactive role in addressing the structural challenges posed by climate change, urging them to focus not only on adaptation but also on preventing future damages through resilient policy frameworks.
He described the deliberations over the two plenary sessions as “true reflection of the spirit of parliamentary democracy—vibrant debates, thoughtful exchanges, and a shared commitment to the people we serve.”
He highlighted the importance of India@2047 as a continuing journey marked by smaller, measurable goals tailored to each state’s unique needs.
The RS Deputy Chairman also lauded Assam Speaker Biswajit Daimary for stressing the need to raise awareness about the concept of Viksit Bharat at the constituency level.
Harivansh noted that as India’s economy evolves, the nature of work and employment will also change, making legislative guidance critical in navigating socio-economic transitions.
Citing the Deputy Speaker of Sikkim, Harivansh also acknowledged the state’s achievement in becoming India’s first fully organic state in 2016, demonstrating how economic growth can be aligned with environmental sustainability and national Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
NE’s development focus
Highlighting the Union Government’s sustained focus on the region, Harivansh noted that 10% of the Union Budget is earmarked for the North East.
Between 2017 and August 2023, the Ministry of DoNER supported 126 Externally Aided Projects worth Rs 1.35 lakh crore, while the Department of Economic Affairs recommended 124 projects worth Rs 1.26 lakh crore for external funding over the last decade, he said.
He stressed that effective legislative oversight and accountability are essential for these initiatives to deliver their intended impact.
Quoting Meghalaya Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh, he urged lawmakers to address inefficiencies in land and labour laws and ensure inclusivity to boost investor confidence and attract new opportunities to the region.
Annual discussions on Viksit Bharat, focusing on policy reviews that drive long-term development, were recommended as a key legislative practice. Improved infrastructure, the rise of agro-processing industries, and eco-tourism are already contributing to positive growth outcomes, he added, citing the Prime Minister’s Act East Policy as a strategic framework positioning the North East at the centre of India’s development vision.
Environmental stewardship
Acknowledging the North Eastern legislatures’ adoption of technology, Harivansh emphasised that innovation and research will shape governance and economic growth.
He also highlighted the region’s ecological challenges, recalling Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio’s remarks on balancing abundant natural resources with sustainable commercial use.
Drawing from his visit to Khonoma Village, Asia’s first green village, Harivansh praised it as a “living example of sustainable living,” underscoring how small individual actions collectively contribute to environmental protection.
He reiterated the need for legislatures to proactively plan for structural shifts caused by climate change to mitigate social and economic disruptions.
Harnessing regional and global opportunities
Meanwhile, Nagaland Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye noted that the conference showcased legislative innovation, procedural reforms, transparency, and inclusive governance.
He highlighted the potential of ASEAN cooperation in tourism and health services and emphasised the strategic importance of physical connectivity, citing the Trilateral Highway Project linking India, Myanmar, and Thailand as a potential game-changer for the region.
Kenye also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vision 2047, stressing that achieving a $10 trillion economy requires policies fostering innovation, self-reliance, social inclusion, and equitable growth.
He added that localised solutions, including domestic software and technology capabilities, are essential to reduce dependency on external sources. On the theme “Policy, Progress & People: Legislatures as Catalysts of Change”, participants reiterated the importance of collaboration, exchange of ideas, and good practices to strengthen democratic institutions and regional cooperation.
Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and Vice Chairman of CPA India Region Zone-III, Thomas A Sangma also expressed gratitude for the successful proceedings and lauded the spirit of dialogue, unity, and democratic commitment.
NLA Deputy Speaker S Toiho Yeptho aslo expressed gratitude to speakers, panellists, and participants, noting that the deliberations and friendships forged would guide lawmakers toward stronger democratic institutions and a more inclusive future.
Earlier, NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer led the gathering in paying tribute to MLA Imkong L Imchen, who had passed away earlier that day, observing a two-minute silence in his memory, informed a DIPR report.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) was founded in 1911 and currently comprised over 180 legislatures from 53 Commonwealth countries and promotes collaboration through conferences and knowledge sharing.
