Panaji, Goa April 10, 2026

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha Shri Om Birla has said that the maiden conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region, Zone–VII, which concluded in Goa today, April 10^th, has become a “significant milestone” in enhancing regional parliamentary collaboration among states such as Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, with participation from other states including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Haryana as special invitees. He was addressing a press conference at Panaji outlining key outcomes of the deliberations.

The conference, which was hosted by the Goa Legislative Assembly from April 8^th to 10th, discussed two key themes: the role of young legislators in achieving the vision of “Developed India 2047,” and the regional priorities concerning trade, tourism, urbanization, environmental sustainability, and coastal connectivity. Shri Birla said that the participants contributed thoughtfully, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing emerging governance challenges.

The conference successfully facilitated meaningful discussions in a constructive and participatory environment, he said.

Talking about the critical role of the CPA in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering cooperation among legislatures across the Commonwealth countries, Shri Birla said that the India Region, as one of the largest within the CPA framework, continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue, exchange of best practices, and promotion of good governance.

Providing updates about the Special Session of the 18th Lok Sabha which will be held from April 16 to April 18, 2026, he said that the session will focus on legislative business, including the introduction of important government bills, and will consist of three sittings.

Shri Birla said that during the last Budget Session, the House had witnessed substantial legislative activity. The Union Budget for 2026–27 was presented on February 1, followed by discussions on Demands for Grants, which were passed on March 18. The Finance Bill was approved on March 25. Nine government bills have been introduced in the Budget Session, of which eight have been passed, he said.

Concluding his address, Shri Birla reiterated the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation among legislative bodies to strengthen democratic processes and effectively respond to the aspirations of citizens.

Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly Shri Ganesh Gaonkar and Lok Sabha Secretary General Shri Utpal Kumar Singh were also present at the press conference.

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PIB Panaji, Goa/Riyas Babu/Parshuram Kor

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