Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the first-ever national-level two-day conference of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) at the International Centre for Automotive Technology in Manesar, Gurugram on Thursday. The conference brings together chairpersons of ULBs from across the country, including states and union territories, to deliberate on the evolving role of urban governance in a fast-modernising India.
Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh, and Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan will also attend the inaugural session, alongside other distinguished dignitaries.
A Platform for Urban Transformation
Organised under the theme “Role of Urban Local Bodies in Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and Nation Building”, the conference aims to serve as a vital forum for discussing the transformative potential of ULBs in shaping India’s urban future.
The two-day event will highlight how local governance can play a foundational role in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive growth, and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Key Themes and Discussions
Participants will engage in sessions addressing five key areas:
- ULBs as Pillars of Democracy – Establishing model practices, procedures, and codes of conduct for general council meetings.
- ULBs as Engines of Inclusive Development – Enhancing municipal governance to fulfill constitutional mandates effectively.
- ULBs as Architects of 21st Century India – Enabling the development of future-ready cities and contributing to national goals.
- ULBs and Women Empowerment – Fostering leadership among women through their involvement in local governance.
- ULBs as Innovation Hubs – Improving public service delivery and citizens’ quality of life through creative governance models.
Valedictory Session and Cultural Tour
On Friday, the conference will continue with group presentations on the sub-themes, followed by a valedictory session led by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya, who will address the delegates. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh and other senior leaders will also be in attendance.
The event will conclude with a guided tour of key democratic landmarks including Prerna Sthal, Samvidhan Sadan, and the Parliament House, offering attendees a symbolic connection to the roots of India’s constitutional framework.
