The Impressive TimesManesar, July 3 – In a landmark development for India’s urban governance framework, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the First National Level Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies of States and Union Territories in Manesar on Thursday. This first-of-its-kind, two-day event, being held on July 3 and 4, has brought together key municipal leaders from every corner of the country to engage in a wide-ranging dialogue on strengthening the foundations of grassroots democracy and urban development.
Organized with the objective of deepening the role of urban local bodies (ULBs) in India’s nation-building efforts, the conference signals a renewed commitment to empowering decentralized institutions and making urban governance more responsive, inclusive, and future-ready. Chairpersons and key representatives from municipal corporations, councils, and committees from all states and union territories have assembled in Manesar to deliberate on the pressing issues confronting India’s rapidly urbanizing landscape.
A Platform for Participatory Urban Democracy
The conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of the responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities faced by ULBs in the 21st century. The agenda includes sessions focused on themes such as participatory democracy, urban resilience, gender inclusion, and the role of local institutions in shaping India’s long-term development goals—especially the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 (Developed India by 2047).
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In his keynote address, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the critical role ULBs play as the first point of contact between citizens and the state. “Strengthening urban local bodies is essential for achieving effective, accountable, and transparent governance. Our municipalities must become engines of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability,” he stated.
Day Two to Feature Direct Interaction with Speaker Om Birla
The second day of the conference will see Speaker Om Birla engage in an open dialogue with the attending chairpersons. This interaction is expected to offer valuable feedback to policymakers at the Centre and reinforce the government’s commitment to cooperative federalism. It also highlights the Centre’s belief in empowering local representatives as vital contributors to democratic governance.
Focus Areas: Women Empowerment, Inclusivity, and 2047 Goals
Panel discussions and thematic sessions during the event will cover a range of issues including the role of ULBs in empowering women through representation and policy execution, making cities inclusive and accessible for all, and adapting urban administration to the demands of sustainable development and climate change.
By promoting the sharing of best practices and encouraging peer learning among urban leaders, the conference seeks to build a unified vision for the future of Indian cities. As India prepares for a transformative urban decade, this historic gathering marks a significant step toward a more participatory, resilient, and visionary approach to urban governance.
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