New Delhi, July 2 (H.S.): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the inaugural national conference for urban local body chairpersons from states and union territories at the International Centre for Automotive Technology in Manesar, Gurugram, on Thursday. This two-day event aims to emphasize the crucial role of urban local bodies amid increasing urbanization, bolster democratic frameworks, share best practices, and introduce innovative urban governance strategies. Key attendees include Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan.

The conference's theme is 'Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and the Role of Urban Local Bodies in Nation Building.' Key discussions will focus on five critical issues, with each group presenting their sub-topics on July 4. On the final day, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya will address attendees.

The five themes cover the role of urban local bodies as democratic pillars, tools for inclusive development, architects of India's future by 2047, agents of women's empowerment, and centers for innovation and best practices.

The event concludes with a tour of Constitution Hall and Parliament House for the representatives.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar