On 27 September 2024, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the 21st Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Zone III Conference at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Complex in Aizawl. The conference was held to strengthen democratic processes and promote legislative sanctity in the northeastern region of India. It ran for two days, from 27 to 28 September 2024, and featured the participation of political leaders from across the northeastern states.
Key Attendees of the CPA Zone III Conference
Prominent attendees included Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Speaker of Mizoram Legislative Assembly Lalbiakzama, and Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly Sharingain Longkumer. Additionally, nine Presiding Officers from the northeastern states’ legislatures also participated in the event.
Purpose and Themes of the CPA Conference
The conference focused on the theme of “Democratic Sanctity, Transparency, Accountability, and Results from Democracy.” It aimed to address regional challenges through legislative discussions and foster collaboration among northeastern states. One of the key topics was the proposal to merge the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DONER) with the North Eastern Council (NEC) for more strategic planning and efficient execution of projects.
| Event | Dates | Location | Key Themes |
| CPA Zone III Conference | 27-28 September 2024 | Mizoram Legislative Assembly, Aizawl | Democratic Sanctity, Accountability |
Background of the CPA and Its Role in Democracy
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) was established in 1911 to promote parliamentary democracy and strengthen governance in Commonwealth countries. It represents over 180 legislatures from 54 member countries. The CPA India Region, formed in 2004, includes 31 member branches, such as the Indian Parliament and state/union territory legislatures. The conference provided a platform for discussions on issues important to the northeastern region, particularly with a focus on India-ASEAN trade relations and the Act East Policy.
National and Regional Impact of the Conference
The 21st CPA Zone III Conference is expected to have a significant national impact. It promotes greater cooperation between northeastern states and enhances their role in national legislative affairs. The event also emphasized the potential of the northeastern region in sectors like tourism, natural resources, and agriculture, making it a key contributor to India’s economic growth.
Aims of the Conference
- Strengthen democratic governance in the northeastern region.
- Address regional issues through collaborative legislative efforts.
- Explore opportunities for socio-economic growth and better integration of the Northeast with national development plans.
- Discuss the merging of DONER with NEC to improve project coordination.
21st CPA Zone III Conference Key Points
- Om Birla inaugurated the 21st CPA Zone III Conference on 27 September 2024 in Aizawl, Mizoram.
- The conference focused on democratic sanctity, transparency, and accountability.
- It brought together political leaders from across northeastern India to discuss regional and national legislative issues.
- The CPA promotes parliamentary democracy in Commonwealth nations, including India.
Discussions included the potential merger of DONER with NEC for better strategic planning.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The 21st CPA Zone III Conference is a gathering of political leaders from the northeastern states of India, focusing on strengthening democratic processes and legislative discussions.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the event at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Complex in Aizawl.
The theme was “Democratic Sanctity, Transparency, Accountability, and Results from Democracy,” aimed at promoting democratic governance in the region.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is an international organization that promotes parliamentary democracy across Commonwealth countries. It provides a platform for collaboration among legislatures.
The conference fosters regional collaboration, discusses strategic development projects, and supports the integration of the Northeast in national and international frameworks like the Act East Policy.