on the participation of indian parliamentary...
TRANSCRIPT
REPORT
ON
THE PARTICIPATION OF INDIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION
AT THE
57TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE IN LONDON
21–28 JULY, 2011
Laid in the Lok Sabha on 16 May, 2012
Laid in the Rajya Sabha on 16 May, 2012
LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT
NEW DELHI
2
REPORT
ON
THE PARTICIPATION OF INDIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION
AT THE
57TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE
LONDON 21–28 JULY, 2011
3
LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT
NEW DELHI
C.P.A. No. 7
Price: Rs. 39.00
© 2012 BY LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT
Published under Rule 382 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha (Twelfth Edition).
4
PREFACE
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) celebrated it's centenary in 2011 and marking this occasion, 57th CPA Conference was hosted by Parliament of United Kingdom. The growth of the Association is evident in its growth. In 1911, in the first meeting, six Parliaments attended the inaugural meeting. In 1948, the number of Parliaments increased to 36 and this year 140 Parliaments/Legislatures attended the 57th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.
2. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) aims to promote knowledge of Constitutional, Legislative, Economic, Social and Cultural aspects of Parliamentary Democracy. Annual Conferences are organized to pursue these aims.
3. Smt. Meira Kumar, Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha led an Indian Parliamentary delegation to the 57th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Westminster, London from 21-28 July, 2011. The delegation comprised of five members of Parliament and Speakers/Ministers from State Legislatures.
4. The Indian delegation participated in different events of the Conference. This report contains the details of the Conference and the participation of Indian Delegation.
5. I hope the information contained in the report will help the Members when the relevant topics are discussed in and outside the Parliament.
T.K. Viswanathan, New Delhi; Secretary-General.
May, 2012
Vaisakha, 1934 (Saka)
5
CONTENTS
Page
1. Introduction ……………………………………………………………………. 1
2. CPA Executive Committee Meeting ……………………………….. 4
3. Regional Group Meeting ………………………………………………… 6
4. Official Opening of the Conference ………………………………… 7
5. Plenary Session I: Address by Secretary-General, CPA and Deputy Secretary-General Commonwealth ……………………..
8
6. Workshop: ……………………………………………………………….......
10 A. “Climate Change”……………………………………………….……… 10
B. “Parliament and Reforms – Raising the Benchmarks”… 11
C. “Commonwealth Initiatives in Handling Migration Issues” ……………………………………………………………..………
13
D. “Enhancing Good Governance and Accountability: Improving Standards of Probity and Performance” ……
14
E. “The World Economy and Obstacles Facing the Commonwealth” …………………………………………..............
15
F. “Women as Agents of Change: Where Are We Now? The Way Forward” …………………………….........................
17
G. “Technological Threats to International, National and Personal Security” ……………………..................................
18
H. “The Role of Parliamentarians in Advancing the Transfer of Agricultural Technology and Research” ....................................................................
19
7. Host Branch Plenary on “Reinforcing Democracy” ………….. 20
8. Final Plenary on “Commonwealth Parliaments: Progress and Challenges" ………………………………………………………………..
21
9. General Assembly of CPA ………………………………………………… 22
10. 48th Meeting of the Society of Clerks at-the-Table …………… 23
11. Bilateral Meetings …………………………………………………………… 23
12. Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………… 24
Detailed Programme of the Conference (Annexure-I) ……… 25
6
Introduction
1.1 Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is an
organization of Commonwealth Parliamentarians who are united
by community of interest, respect for the rule of law and
individual rights and freedoms. Active CPA Branches now exist in
175 National, State, Provincial and Territorial Parliaments with a
total Membership of approximately 17,000 Parliamentarians.
1.2 The CPA was founded in 1911 as Empire Parliamentary
Association. Evolving with the Commonwealth, the CPA in 1948
adopted its present name and changed its role to enable all
members to participate in the Association’s Management and a
separate Secretariat was established to manage the affairs of the
Association. 2011 was the Centennial Year of the CPA.
1.3 The Annual Conference of CPA is hosted by one of
the CPA Branches. In 2011, the 57th CP Conference was hosted
by the United Kingdom CPA Branch. 600 delegates from all
over the Commonwealth Parliaments attended the event.
Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha led an Indian Parliament delegation
to the Conference. The delegation comprised of the following
Members from Indian Union CPA Branch (Parliament of India):—
(i) Smt. Meira Kumar, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha
(ii) Shri Arjun Charan Sethi, MP Lok Sabha
(iii) Shri Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, MP
Agenda of General Assembly Meeting (Annexure-II) …….. 32
List of delegates from States CPA Branches (Annexure-III) ………………………………………………………………….
34
7
Lok Sabha
(iv) Shri Mukut Mithi, MP, Rajya Sabha
(v) Shri Balbir Punj, MP Rajya Sabha (vi) Dr. (Smt.) Killi Kruparani, MP Lok Sabha
(vii) Shri T.K. Viswanathan, Secretary-General, Lok Sabha and Regional Secretary CPA India Region
(viii) Shri S. Bal Shekar, – Secretary to the Additional Secretary, delegation Lok Sabha Secretariat
SOCIETY OF THE CLERKS-AT-THE-TABLE
(ix) Shri Deepak Goyal, Joint Secretary, Rajya Sabha Secretariat OBSERVERS
(x) Shri U.S. Saxena, Joint Secretary, Lok Sabha Secretariat
(xi) Smt. Shalini Singh, Private Secretary to Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha (xii) Shri S.R. Mishra, Deputy Secretary, Lok Sabha Secretariat (xiii) Shri Krishan Pal Balyan, OSD to Hon’ble Speaker Lok Sabha
8
(xiv) Shri Rakesh Anand, Deputy Director, Rajya Sabha Secretariat (xv) Shri Atul Bhave, Sr. Protocol Assistant, Lok Sabha Secretariat
1.4 Delegates from Indian State Branches were also part of
the Indian delegation which included the following delegates
from the State CPA Branches of India: Shri Nadendla Manohar,
Speaker, Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly; Shri Wanglin
Lowangdong, Speaker, Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly;
Shri Pranab Gogoi, Speaker, Assam Legislative Assembly; Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai, Minister, Govt. of Assam and Regional
Representative, CPA India Region; Shri Uday Narain Choudhary,
Speaker, Bihar Vidhan Sabha; Shri Dharam Lal Kaushik, Speaker,
Chhattisgarh, Vidhan Sabha; Shri Pratapsing Raoji Rane,
Speaker, Goa Legislative Assembly; Shri Ganpatsinh V. Vasava,
Speaker, Gujarat Legislative Assembly; Shri Kuldeep Sharma, Speaker, Haryana Vidhan Sabha; Sardar Harmohinder Singh
Chhatha, Minister of Finance, Govt. of Haryana & Regional
Representative, CPA India Region; Shri Tulsi Ram, Speaker,
Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha; Mohd. Akbar Lone, Speaker,
Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly; Shri Chandreshwar
Prasad Singh, Speaker, Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha, Shri D.H. Shankaramurthy, Chairman, Karnataka Legislative
Council; Shri G. Karthikeyan, Speaker, Kerala Legislative Assembly;
Shri Ishwar Das Rohani, Speaker, Madhya Pradesh Legislative
Assembly; Shri Vasant Davkhare, Deputy Chairman,
Maharashtra Legislative Council, Shri I. Hemochandra Singh,
Speaker, Manipur Legislative Assembly; Shri Charles Pyngrope,
Speaker, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly; Shri R. Romawia,
Speaker, Mizoram Legislative Assembly; Shri Kiyanilie Peseyie,
Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly; Shri Pradeep Kumar
Amat, Speaker, Orissa Legislative Assembly; Sardar Nirmal Singh
9
Kahlon, Speaker, Punjab Legislative Assembly; Shri M.B. Dahal,
Deputy Speaker, Sikkim Legislative Assembly; Shri R.C. Debnath,
Speaker, Tripura Legislative Assembly; Shri Harbans Kapoor,
Speaker, Uttarakhand Vidhan Sabha; Shri Biman Bandyopadhyay, Speaker, West Bengal Legislative Assembly; and Dr. Yoganand
Shastri, Speaker, Delhi Vidhan Sabha.
1.5 Shri N.B. Subhedar, Secretary, Goa Legislative Assembly;
Shri Girish Jha, Secretary-in-Charge, Bihar Legislative Assembly;
Shri Ngurthanzuala, Secretary, Mizoram Legislative Assembly, and
Mohd. Ramzan, Secretary, J&K Legislative Assembly attended the
Conference as Secretary to India Region Delegation.
1.6 During the Conference, the Meeting of CPA Executive
Committee, Meeting of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians
and Small Countries Conference were also held. The CPA Working
Party was also held before the Conference. The delegates from
CPA India Region met as per the schedule of Regional Group Meetings. The theme of the Conference was “Reinforcing
Democracy” and the Conference had an Opening Plenary, eight
Workshops on different topics, Centennial Plenary on the topic
“Reinforcing Democracy” and Final Plenary on “Commonwealth
Parliaments: Progress and Challenges”.
2. Meeting of the CPA Executive Committee
2.1 The Executive Committee Meeting was attended by
Smt. Meira Kumar, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha alongwith
Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai, Minister , Government of Assam and
Regional Representatives from CPA India Region and Sardar
Harmohinder Singh Chhatha, Minister of Finance, Government
of Haryana and Regional Representative from CPA India Region.
2.2 Due to late submission of annual contribution by
Arunachal Pradesh CPA Branch, the Branch was to be suspended
from the Association, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha led the other
Regional Representatives from CPA India Region in the discussion
10
and persuaded the CPA Executive Committee to waive the
condition for the Arunachal Pradesh CPA Branch, as there was a
serious mishap (accident of helicopter killing the Chief Minister of
the State) which brought the State administration to a stand still. The Committee agreed to allow the delegate from the Arunachal
Pradesh CPA Branch to attend the Conference.
2.3 The Executive Committee also deliberated on the status
of CPA on the basis of Working Party Report.
2.4 The Executive Committee agreed to make the Little
Acrons Project Programme structure a permanent feature of
CPA Activities. Little Acrons Project was initiated by the
Hon. Y.B. Dato’Seri Mohd. Shafie, Apdal, MP, Minister of
Rural and Regional Development Malaysia and Chairman,
CPA Executive Committee in 2007. This project received financial
support from Petronas Oil Company of Malaysia and the aim of
the project was to help the youth through the supply of
educational materials as a link between the CPA as a democracy
promoting institution and the youth as the future players in
reinforcing democracy and human rights. The project has
enabled the youth to be in touch with the rest of the world.
Laptops were provided to youth in Tanzania in 2009 and in
Kenya in 2010.
2.5 CPA Executive Committee endorsed the report of the CPA
for submission to CHOGM held in Western Australia, Secretary
General CPA reported that these report is usually prepared by the
Secretaries including summary of activities for forwarding to
Heads of Government via the Commonwealth Secretariat and the
Committee of the whole.
2.6 The new CPA Executive Committee met on 27 July, 2011
in Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge Hotel, Smt. Meira Kumar,
Speaker, Lok Sabha, Sardar Harmohinder Singh Chhatha, Minister,
11
Government of Haryana and Shri Kiyanilie Peseyie, Speaker,
Nagaland Legislative Assembly (New Member) attended the
CPA Executive Committee as Regional Representatives from CPA
India Region.
2.7 Hon. Nafisa Shah, MNA, Pakistan was elected unopposed
as the Vice-Chairperson of the CPA for 2011-2012.
3. Meeting of the India Region Group
3.1 The CPA India Region met on 25th July, 2011 in
Ballroom 4, Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge Hotel, London.
Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha Chaired the meeting.
3.2 The delegates from CPA India Region were appraised
about the 57th CPA Conference and were advised to participate
in various workshops and plenary sessions. The delegates were
informed that to ensure participation of Indian delegates in all the
workshops/plenary Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha has kindly
allocated workshops among the delegates to ensure balanced
participation of Indian delegation. Delegates were informed that
Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha will be a discussion leader on
workshop ‘G’ on the topic “Technological Threats to International,
National and Personal Security”. Shri Balbir Punj, MP,
Rajya Sabha was nominated as a discussion leader on the
workshop ‘E’ on the topic “World Economy and Obstacles facing
the Commonwealth”.
3.3 The delegates were advised to attend the General
Assembly without fail as there was a contested election for the
post of Chairperson, CPA Executive Committee and delegates are
requested to vote in that election. Delegates were informed that
the following 3 candidates are contesting for the post of
Chairperson, CPA Executive Committee:-
(i) Rt. Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, UK
12
(ii) Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, MP, Minister of Justice
and Court Administration, Samoa (iii) Hon’ble Kashmala Tariq, MNA, Pakistan
3.4 Further the delegates were informed that in the General
Assembly Shri Kiyanilie Peseyie, Speaker, Nagaland Legislative
Assembly will be elected as a Regional Representative from
CPA India Region to replace Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai,
Cabinet Minister, Government of Assam and the Goa CPA Branch
will be elected as the stand-by Branch from CPA India Region for
the year 2011-12.
3.5 In connection with the CPA India Region activities the
delegates discussed on the following topics:—
Celebrating the CPA Centennial Hosting the 5th CPA India Region Conference in 2012 Hosting the annual CPA Seminar and CPA India
Region Seminar
First CWP Seminar of CPA India Region.
3.6 Earlier the Regional Secretaries of a CPA Regions met in a
breakfast meeting. Shri T.K. Viswanathan, Secretary-General, Lok
Sabha and Regional Secretary CPA India Region attended the
meeting.
4. Official Opening of the Conference
4.1 The 2011 Conference was the sixth Annual CPA
Conference to be hosted by the United Kingdom Parliament.
The conference was officially opened on 25 July, 2011 by
HRH, The Princess Royal in an impressive ceremony in the
900 year old Westminster Hall, Hon. John Bercow, MP, the
Speaker of the House of Commons and the President of the CPA
chaired the Conference.
13
4.2 Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal inaugurated the
Conference and stressed on the importance of theme of the
Conference “Reinforcing Democracy” She mentioned that
Democracy is not an easy answer. Maintaining democracy is hard
work and everybody has to take part and we all have that
challenge as we face the future. We should make sure that we all
continue to take part and play our part in democracy.
Rt. Hon. John Bercow, MP, President of the CPA and
Speaker of the House of Commons, United Kingdom and
Hon’Dato’Seri Mohd. Shafie, Apdal, MP, Chairperson of the CPA
Executive Committee addressed the gathering at the opening
ceremony.
Plenary Session – I:
5.1 Soon after the Inaugural Ceremony, the first plenary
session of the Conference was held on Monday, 25 July, 2011 in
the Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament. Dr. William F. Shija
Secretary General of CPA and Ms. Hmasekgoa Masire Mwamba,
Deputy Secretary General, Commonwealth addressed the
delegates. Question and answer session was followed after both
the addresses. Shri Kamlesh Sharma, Commonwealth Secretary
General could not attend the Conference due to a family
bereavement.
5.2 Dr. William F. Shija, Secretary General of CPA took the
opportunity of Centennial Celebration of the Association to place
on record the advantages CPA has brought to the world
community in its century old existence.
5.3 Firstly, CPA has reinforced democracy. The testimony to
this is that 180 Parliaments/Legislatures with 17,000 members
from diverse regional groups are now members of the
association. The CPA has stood the test of time and it has
witnessed the prolonged global depression, end of colonialism,
14
rise of racial and gender equality, countless regional wars, travel
& communication revolutions, globalization of information,
changes in International trade and finance. CPA has passed
through the decolonization process which revealed to the
new citizens the power of the expression of individual
freedom and association by millions in the Caribbean, Asian
and African Countries.
5.4 Attending as a representative of Commonwealth
Secretary General, Ms. Mwamba, Deputy Secretary General,
Commonwealth expressed her honour to attend the Centennial
Conference and addressed the delegates in the historic
Westminster Hall. She eulogized the Commonwealth approach of
learning from one another and gaining through the mutual
exchange of ideas, experience and insights. She referred to the
current Commonwealth theme “Women as Agents of Change”
and drew attention to the role of women and girls in accelerating
social, economic and political advancement. She stated that the
admission of Rwanda to the Commonwealth and the CPA is a
cause for celebration, as Rwandan Parliament is the first where
Women MPs out- number Men.
5.5 Ms. Mwamba informed the delegates that citizens of
Commonwealth countries would be linked in real terms when the
“Commonwealth Connect” goes live later in 2011. She mentioned
that when the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) would meet in Perth
the theme of 57th CP Conference i.e. “Reinforcing Democracy” is
expected to be uppermost in the mind of the leaders at CHOGM.
5.6 She mentioned that democracy is the Government by
discussion and all consultation processes within the
Commonwealth carry this principle.
5.7 Ms. Mwamba mentioned a level playing field and
adherence to rule of Law are the imperatives if democracy is to
15
flourish. Commonwealth Leaders in 2009 has endorsed the
establishment of a network of national election management
bodies to increase collaboration and to boost the standard of
these institutions. Their network has been launched and it will
meet every two years.
16
6. Workshop Sessions
6.1 Following Workshop Sessions were held on Tuesday 26
July, 2011 during the Conference:
(i) Workshop A — The Commonwealth in the 21st Century
(ii) Workshop B — Parliament and Reforms – Raising the Benchmarks
(iii) Workshop C — Commonwealth Initiatives in Handling Migration Issues
(iv) Workshop D — Enhancing Good Governance and Accountability: Improving Standards of Probity and Performance
(v) Workshop E — The World Economy and Obstacles Facing the Commonwealth
(vi) Workshop F — Women as Agents of Change: Where are we now? The Way Forward
(vii) Workshop G — Technological Threats to International, National and Personal Security
(viii) Workshop H — The Role of Parliamentarians in Advancing the Transfer of Agricultural Technology and Research
6.2 In the Workshop ‘A’ on the topic “The Commonwealth in
the 21st Century”, the members agreed on the importance of the
Commonwealth in the 21st century as it comprises of 54 States
having 31 per cent of the total global population and just over
one billion middle class people across these Commonwealth
17
countries. The members were of the view that the
Commonwealth may lack weight and has rarely played its role as
a block; however, it has the capacity to do so as it has a common
language, common accounting practices, common legal
frameworks, common patent laws, similar political institutions
and business practices. One member was of the view that these
similarities among the Commonwealth countries can make the
trading transactions 10 to 20 per cent cheaper. It was also
mentioned that the trade relations among the Commonwealth
countries are increasing and about 3 trillion USD trade is done in a
year within the Commonwealth countries.
6.3 Some members also expressed concern that in spite of all
these positive points of Commonwealth trade, international
relations had been decided on other strategic partnerships at the
expense of the Commonwealth. The role of Commonwealth in
the field of climate change and the matter of improving
the benchmark for democratic legislatures were also discussed.
It was appreciated that within the Commonwealth, the richer
countries are extending help to the poorer countries and in this
context it was mentioned by one delegate from Africa that India is
now providing 7 million pound a year to the 19 African members
through its Special Commonwealth Assistance in Africa
Programme. Speakers from Gujarat, Tripura and Orissa attended
this workshop.
6.4 Workshop ‘B’ was on the topic “Parliament and
Reforms — Raising the Benchmarks”. During the discussion, the
delegates appreciated the formation of CPA benchmarks for
democratic legislatures which in their view provide a guidelines
for improving the effectiveness of Parliamentary system. The
members, however, were of the opinion that it is up to the
members to gather political will and work across the party line to
make their Parliament more effective. A delegate from Canada
informed that the Canadian Parliament have used these
18
CPA benchmarks as yardsticks to judge their effectiveness.
Another delegate from Australia informed the workshop that
minority Government in Australian capital territory has adopted
the process of committee system for the oversight functioning
and now after the passing of advertisement bill, an independent
assessor has been appointed to oversee the expenditure of
Government in advertisement for Australian dollar 40,000 and it
will ensure that these advertisements are used for the
information of the people and not for the purpose of political
promotion. She was of the view that due to organised political
parties, the doctrine of Parliamentary supremacy has been
undermined and Parliaments have been emasculated resulting in
rubber-stamping of executive decisions.
6.5 Shri Uday Narayan Chaudhary, Speaker, Bihar Legislative
Assembly participating in the workshop, argued that elections
provide a basis for rule by the people but they do not guarantee
effective representation. True democracy requires that those
who are freely elected should have the power and political will to
fulfil their responsibilities. Parliament must ensure that they
function in a democratic manner and should have the necessary
authority and resources to fulfil their representative and
oversight functions.
6.6 Shri Chandreshwar Prasad Singh, Speaker, Jharkhand
Legislative Assembly mentioned that Parliament is the custodian
of the rights and interests of the people. Its supremacy ensured
the participation of the people in the management of public
affairs.
6.7 Speaker, Goa Legislative Assembly Shri Pratap Singh Rane
was of the view that democracy required transparency and
people liked the work of the legislature as it was evident from the
rising viewership of all the TV programmes relating to working of
legislatures.
19
6.8 One delegate from Malaysia was of the view that
independence of Parliamentary services is one of the
most important area for the working of Parliament
independently. The services drawn from public services usually
leads to governmental interference which negates the sacred
doctrine of Parliamentary independence. Another point of
conflicting interest was that members of the legislatures
primarily show their loyalty to the party and to the executive.
The workshop agreed that the Westminster model of
Parliamentary democracy was still the best available form of
Government and this must be improved.
6.9 Workshop ‘C’ was on the topic “Commonwealth
Initiatives in Handling Migration Issues”. The workshop
agreed that migration can be an asset, but there is an urgent
need for it to be properly managed rather than policed. On the
role of Parliament and the Government, the workshop was of the
view that they should fight the negative public perception of
migration using accurate evidence for the benefit of
migrants-generating countries as well as migrants-receiving
countries. Speakers in the workshop emphasized on the analysis
of the impact of large scale migration and migration of small
countries, the problems in assimilation of migrant population,
stress on the culture of the migrants-receiving countries, lack of
awareness of migrants about their rights. A representative from
Ramphal Commission of Migration and Development was of
the view that international migration is a structural and
growing feature of the globalised 21st century. A delegate from
Bangladesh emphasized the role of migration on the economy of
his country. He mentioned that around 4 lakh workers migrated
each year to Gulf and Middle East countries and the remittances
received from them was the single biggest source of foreign
exchange earnings i.e. 13 per cent of GDP of Bangladesh.
20
Therefore, he requested that the issue of migration should be
treated keeping in view the poverty eradication achieved through
this financial gain. A delegate from Pakistan mentioned that his
country was facing unmanageable migration due to forced
migration which affected Pakistan’s economy and urban life and
increased terrorism.
6.10 Shri Mukut Mithi Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha
mentioned that illegal migration was the biggest issue for the
Commonwealth country. He stated that the focus should be on
the effective streamlining of migration within respective country’s
legal framework. This could be achieved through bilateral
agreements and human resources mobility partnerships. The
workshop agreed that migration is a very complex issue with
varied dimensions both positive and negative and solutions may
be sought generally and also by each country individually.
6.11 Workshop ‘D’ was on the topic “Enhancing Good
Governance and Accountability: Improving Standards of Probity
and Performance”. On the Government’s reforms, the delegates
emphasized on the improvement of accountability of the
executive to the Parliament and further enhancing the
Parliament’s links with citizens and raise the standard of probity
of the legislature. The workshop was of the view that the
committee system should be strengthened and its public
outreach programme should further be extended. One delegate
suggested that committee should hold their sittings in various
parts of the country and he suggested that presiding officers and
other Parliamentary Officers should visit schools and universities
to raise the level of awareness among younger generations.
To improve accountability, it was suggested that there should be
a mechanism to cull out Government assurances and monitor
these assurances so that it may be fulfilled as mentioned by the
Government.
21
6.12 On the aspect of improvement in the standard of probity,
the workshop agreed that all the members of the legislatures
should disclose their financial assets, fiscal interests publicly and
there should be a code of conduct for all the members to
ensure their integrity, objectivity, openness and accountability.
There should be a separate institutional framework to examine
alleged violations of these codes. To ensure Parliamentary
independence, the members agreed that there should be
adequate physical and infrastructural arrangements, manpower
support for a parliamentarian to act in an effective manner. The
delegate from United Kingdom informed that the Committee on
Standards and Privileges of the House in U.K. had laid down
general principles of conduct for members’ selflessness, integrity,
objectivity, etc. Emphasizing on the open governance, the
delegates unanimously felt the need for the right to information,
legislation for probity in public life and accountability. One
member from Lesotho informed that due to parliamentary whip
existing in parliamentary system, the members are forced to vote
along party lines, even if his/her constituencies demand voting in
a different manner. She appreciated the system of United
Kingdom where the Members of Parliament can vote against the
party line. The workshop agreed that the parliamentarians
have high responsibilities and they should not be influenced by
personal considerations and parliamentarians should be suitably
remunerated for their job as legislators. Shri S. Bal Shekar,
Additional Secretary, Lok Sabha Secretariat was the rapporteur
for this Session.
6.13 In Workshop ‘E’ delegates discussed the topic “The World
Economy and Obstacles Facing the Commonwealth”. The
delegates felt that the financial crisis has highlighted economic
interdependency and the need for better economic governance
and effective regulation at the global level. The barriers in
22
international trade such as tariffs, codes, etc prevent access to
the large markets of developed countries for the goods produced
by developing countries. Inside the Commonwealth the
developed countries should assist the developing countries by
facilitating trade relations. It was emphasized that the
Commonwealth countries should form common strategy to deal
with economic problems by sharing information.
6.14 Shri Balbir Punj, MP, Rajya Sabha participated in
workshop as a discussion leader. He emphasized the importance
of assessing the economic strength and weaknesses of each
country to meet the challenges in the emerging economic order.
He pointed out that the decline in the global demand and trade
flows has serious negative impact on the small economies by
diminishing export revenues and rise of unemployment. Shri Punj
also mentioned that certain parts of the world are facing gloomy
economic situation due to impact of natural disasters. He
suggested that the Commonwealth countries should focus on
economic policies that would boost export, increase domestic
productivity through structural reforms, improving the
infrastructure, creating sound investment climate and facilitate
private sector access to capital schemes and markets. He also
mentioned that indebtedness of governments, inflation,
unemployment, price volatility are imposing serious threats to
economic stability and growth. He suggested that there
should be greater surveillance and regulation to detect and react
in time to the economic and financial irregularities. On the role
of Parliaments in the present situation Shri Punj suggested that
the first and foremost role of Parliament is to scrutinize
the economic decisions made by their respective Governments
and strive for an inclusive solution along with other
Commonwealth countries.
23
6.15 The delegates also pointed out that due to economic
downturn, there were cases of increasing inter-ethnic and
inter-racial conflicts.
6.16 The topic for the Workshop ‘F’ was “Women as Agents of
Change: Where are we now? The Way Forward”. The delegates
expressed their concern that despite the advancement of women
in politics, the overall percentage of women in Parliament stands
presently at 19.31 per cent and less than 30 countries had
achieved the Commonwealth’s 30 per cent target for women in
national Parliaments. A delegate suggested that there is a need
to develop strategies to encourage and foster interest of women
to participate in politics. It was mentioned that women have
established or owned nearly 25 per cent of new businesses in the
world and it was suggested that development of small business
will broaden the accessibility of women into economic decision
making process. In empowering women, the delegates
emphasized that the role of non-Governmental organizations
should be promoted so that women can exercise their talent and
expertise by gaining confidence and experience in the political
field. Delegates were unanimous that for strengthening the
democratic framework the women of each society should be
strengthened. Some delegates were of the opinion that
participation of women in grassroot politics should be promoted
as at that level the actual problems faced by the women in the
society can be sorted out by them. Participating in the discussion
Dr. Killi Kruparani, MP, Lok Sabha informed the delegates that
the Gender Budget Cells were functional in all the
56 Ministries/Departments of the Government. She mentioned
that growth of women’s Self Help Groups had substantially
changed the face of rural India.
24
6.17 The topic for the Workshop ‘G’ was “Technological
Threats to International, National and Personal Security”.
Smt. Meira Kumar, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha was one of the
discussion leaders in the workshop. Opening the discussion,
Hon’ble Speaker mentioned that technological development was
a driving factor in the advancement of civilizations. However, this
had become a threat to all levels of society. Policing of the
cyberspace has become a challenge for the society. Since the
cyber technology is not confined to the physical boundary of a
territory, it is possible to disrupt critical services infrastructure
such as transport, financial markets and Government information
services. Hon’ble Speaker informed the delegates that India has
legislated on the information security in 2000 and that Act was
amended in 2008 and she felt that along with the technological
development, the legislators should move for the changes in the
legislations. She emphasized on the co-operation of CPA
members in the field of communication and collaboration
for such matters which require global solutions. Hon’ble Speaker
expressed her concern on the growing scourge on modern
civilization in the form of terrorism. Without respecting the
human values and national boundaries, the terrorists armed with
bio-technology and chemical weapons are posing threat to
all round security of the society. She mentioned that Parliament
of India has enacted several legislations to counter such
terrorism. Hacking of computer system is also posing threat to
information relating to defence, internal security, banking system,
etc. Hon’ble Speaker mentioned that due to expansion
of technological revolution, economic activity, industrial
development and indiscriminate use of fossil fuel, the mankind is
facing challenges from global warming and climate changes. She
impressed upon members about the need for all the nations to
work towards the prevention of the misuse of technology and
scientific development.
25
6.18 The delegates suggested that the legislators must
consider what information are to be withheld and what can be
divulged to the public. They agreed that there should be a way of
operating and regulating the internet in a firm manner with
suitable legal framework. Shri Manohar Nadendla, Speaker,
Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly emphasized that
technologically advanced nations should assist the less developed
or smaller nations in dealing with such technological threats. The
delegates agreed that there should be a constant assessment of
threats and the public should be educated on a regular basis to
face these new threats.
6.19 In Workshop ‘H’ the delegates discussed on the topic
“The Role of Parliamentarians in Advancing the Transfer of
Agricultural Technology and Research”. The delegates agreed
that investment in agricultural research is a means for nations to
become self-sufficient and achieve comfortable level of food
security. Some delegates were of the opinion that the technology
adopted by the Western countries come at a higher price and
these countries export technology without educating the people
of the developing countries. The role of parliamentarians in
strengthening the agricultural sector was emphasized by the
delegates. The parliamentarians were also facing the challenges
of decreasing area of agricultural land, increasing population and
impact of climate change. It was agreed that agriculture needs to
be made a profitable occupation and the farmer should be
prompted to produce good quality food with less and less water.
In this connection a speaker from Canada informed that in
Canada, at the local level, the soils were tested and in one case it
was found out fit for production of pulses. Pursuing this
feasibility report, necessary efforts were made and Canada is now
producing huge quantities of lentils and it is being exported to
India and South-East Asia. A delegate from Malaysia mentioned
that his country is planning to change the resource based
26
economy to a production based economy and eventually an
innovation led economy. The delegates emphasized that while
more funds should be pushed into the agricultural research, it
must be ensured that research benefit should be popularized
among the famers and in this area the parliamentarians should
make an extra effort. The farmers should get regular information
of market rates and potential trade options so that they may get
profit for their products. One discussion leader mentioned that
countries which are willing to resource funds for the agricultural
sector and wanted to promote private participation, should
ensure a feasible business plan for the investors. One delegate
gave importance to the point that the foods consumed by the
general public should be preferably produced inside the country
itself, as the people are not aware of the background
and potential health impacts of imported foods. Shri Biman
Bandyopadhyay, Speaker, West Bengal Legislative Assembly
expressed his concern mentioning that many people are born in
debt, live in debt and die in debt and sufficient agricultural land
area is not available as these are being transferred for industrial
purposes.
7. Host branch plenary session
7.1 The host branch plenary was on the topic “Reinforcing
Democracy”
7.2 The Prime Minster of U.K. Rt. Hon. David Cameron, MP
addressed the delegates. He termed Commonwealth to be
“Modern, Mainstream and Practical” as there is no super power
and we are in the world of networks and friendships. More and
more nations want to join the Commonwealth. The Prime
Minister emphasized the need for vigilance and transparency
while extending aid to the poor nation to ensure that the aid
reached its destination.
27
7.3 The Prime Minister replied to the questions from the
delegates on the review of the status of CPA. The PM replied that
more than the status it is more important what the organization
did. Prime Minister also replied to the questions from the floor
on various issues viz. UK’s air passenger duty on tourism,
future of Libya, advancement of women representation in
Parliament, etc.
8. Final Plenary
8.1 The Final Plenary was held on the topic “Commonwealth
Parliaments: Progress and Challenges” on 27th July, 2011.
Rt. Hon. William Hague, MP (U.K.) and Secretary of State
for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs addressed the delegates.
8.2 Mr. Hague mentioned that Commonwealth is one of
the four cornerstones of UK’s foreign policy, the other three
being EU, NATO and it’s relation with USA. Mr. Hague
described the Commonwealth as the “ultimate network” at
the global level pursuing liberty, democracy and respect
for human rights.
8.3 Mr. Hague suggested three changes in the
Commonwealth:
(i) Commonwealth should strengthen its promotion of
respect for human rights and democratic principles
by speaking out strongly against intolerance,
oppression and racism.
(ii) Commonwealth should influence global economy
more effectively.
(iii) Commonwealth should be more active in
advancement of development and prevention of
conflict.
28
8.4 During the discussion, the delegates emphasized on the
role of CPA in promotion of principles viz. adherence to rule of
law, the separation of powers, equal access to human rights and
justice for all, good governance, leadership training, etc.
9. General Assembly of CPA
9.1 The General Assembly of CPA met at 0900 hrs on
Wednesday 27th July, 2011 in the Westminster Ballrooms of Park
Plaza Hotel.
9.2 One of the agenda items of General Assembly was
election for the post of Chairperson of the CPA Executive
Committee. The Following three candidates were contesting the
election:
(i) Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP, United Kingdom
(ii) Ms Fiama Mata’afa, MP, Minister of Justice and Court
Administration, Samoa
(iii) Ms. Kashmala Tariq, MNA, Pakistan
9.3 The three candidates addressed the delegates by rotation
seeking their support. In the first round of voting, there were
235 valid votes. Sir Alan Haselhurst got 101 votes, Ms Fiama
Mata’afa of Samoa got 87 votes and Ms. Kaishmala Tariq, MNA
Pakistan got 47 votes. As per rule, the candidate with lowest
number of votes got eliminated and second round of polling was
held. In the second round there were 215 votes cast out of which
Sir Haselhurst got 118 votes and Ms. Mata’afa got 97 votes and
Sir Alan Haselhurst was declared elected to the post of
Chairperson, CPA Executive Committee.
9.4 In other elections in the General Assembly,
Regional Representatives were elected. Shri Kiyanilie Peseyie,
Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly was elected as a
regional representative from CPA India Region and he replaced
29
Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai, Cabinet Minister in Govt. of Assam.
At the end of the General Assembly retiring members were
presented plaques. Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai received a plaque.
9.5 During the General Assembly, the Centennial publication
of CPA — “The Evolution of Commonwealth Parliamentary
Democracy : The CPA at 100” — was released
9.6 Following three articles of India Region dignitaries were
published in this publication:
(i) Six decades of Indian Democracy — Smt. Meira Kumar, Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha
(ii) Budgetary relations between the Union and State Governments of India — Hon. Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Finance
(iii) Representation of Women in Indian Parliament since independence — Dr. (Smt.) Jyoti Mirdha, MP, Lok Sabha
A copy of the Agenda of General Assembly is placed at
Annexure-II.
10. 48th meeting of Society of Clerks at the table (SOCATT)
10.1 Society of clerks at the Table met on 26 and 27 July, 2011.
Shri T.K. Viswanathan, Secretary-General, Lok Sabha informed the
delegates about recent development in the India Region and
presented a paper on the topic “E-office: Moving towards
Paperless Office in Parliament”.
11. Bilateral meetings
11.1 Speaker, Lok Sabha met Lord Howell, Minister of State
in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on 26th July, 2011.
The meeting was organised on the request of U.K. FCO.
Lord Howell emphasized that special effort is required to add
more vigour to Commonwealth particularly on promotion of
30
trade and investment. Commonwealth accounts for 25% of the
world’s trade and 32% of the world’s population. Lord Howell
informed the Hon’ble Speaker that as per his information
Vice-President Shri Hamid Ansari will attend the CHOGM at Perth
and he requested Hon’ble Speaker to see if Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh would attend the CHOGM. Hon’ble Speaker
mentioned about the continuous support of India in various
matters of Commonwealth.
11.2 Hon’ble Speaker along with Indian Parliamentary
delegation met the delegation from Pakistan, attending the
Conference. The Pakistan delegation expressed gratitude for
our support to Ms. Tariq who was contesting for the post of
Chairperson CPA Executive Committee. Hon’ble Speaker
emphasized on the continuous engagement and talks amongst
fellow parliamentarians for sorting out differences. Hon’ble
Speaker assured full support from CPA India Region for the
candidature of Ms. Tariq.
12. Conclusion:
The Centennial Plenary Conference was a huge success.
Delegates participated in the discussions and interactions held
during the Conference. This brought into focus the problems and
challenges faced by different Commonwealth countries and
delegates deliberated on possible solutions. The delegates
interacted at every opportunity provided during the Conference
including social get together and expressed their desire to work
together for better future taking the advantage of commonality.
New Delhi; May, 2012 T.K. Viswanathan,
Vaisakha, 1934 (Saka) Secretary-General.
31
Annexure-I
57th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE, LONDON 21-28 JULY, 2011
PROGRAMME as at 22 March 2011
DAY 1: THURSDAY, 21 JULY 2011 All day Arrival of CPA Working Party, Commonwealth
Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee and Co-ordinating Committee Members
1900-2100 Dinner (for members of the CPA Working Party, CWP
Steering Committee and Co-ordinating Committee) Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel DAY 2: FRIDAY, 22 JULY 2011 ALL DAY Arrival of Executive Committee and Small Branches
Conference participants
0900-1630 CWP Committee Grand Committee Room, Westminster Hall, Houses
of Parliament Including: Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians
Steering Committee Photograph
0900-1630 CPA Working Party CPA Room, Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament Lunch for members of the CWP Steering Committee
and CPA Working Party Houses of Parliament 1645-1815 Co-ordinating Committee CPA Room, Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament
32
1845-2215 Dinner– 'Women as Agents of Change' (by invitation) Hosted by Rt Hon. Baroness Hayman, Lord Speaker
and President of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians 2011
The Royal Commonwealth Society, Northumberland Avenue, London
DAY 3: SATURDAY, 23 JULY 2011 0900-1000 Official Opening Ceremony of the 31st Small
Branches Conference Park Plaza Suites 1-3, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
hotel
1030-1700 Meeting of the Executive Committee, including lunch Grand Committee Room, Westminster Hall, Houses
of Parliament Including: Executive Committee Photograph
1000-1700 Small Branches Conference Park Plaza Suites 1-3, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
hotel Including: Small Branches Conference Photograph 'Commonwealth Initiatives in Handling Migration
Issues' 'Countering Threats to the Stability of Small
Democracies: Piracy, Drug Trafficking, Terrorism' Lunch for all delegates to the Small Branches
Conference Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1900-2030 Reception for Executive Committee, CWP Steering Committee and Small Branches Conference delegates
Primo Bar, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
33
DAY 4: SUNDAY, 24 JULY 2011 All day Arrival of remaining delegates, observers,
Secretaries, accompanying persons and Society of Clerks-at-the-Table (SOCATT) participants
0930-1700 Meeting of the Executive Committee, including lunch Grand Committee Room, Westminster Hall, Houses
of Parliament
0900-1700 Small Branches Conference Park Plaza Suites 1-3, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
hotel
'Women as Agents of Change in Small Societies' 'Strengthening Democracy in Small States: Youth
Leadership Training Citizen Involvement and Parliamentary Reform'
Lunch for all delegates to the small Branches Conference
Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1900-2200 Formal Dinner for all delegates — 'Uniting the Commonwealth through Sport'
Hosted by Rt Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst, MP Westminster Ballrooms, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel DAY 5: MONDAY, 25 JULY 2011 0700-9000 Breakfast Meeting of Regional Secretaries Venue TBC, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
0900-1000 Briefing for delegates, observers and Secretaries followed by briefing for workshop moderators, discussion leaders, rapporteurs and session secretaries
Westminster Ballroom 1& 3, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
34
0900-1000 Briefing for spouses/partners accredited to the conference
Westminster Ballroom 2, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1015-1245 Regional Group Meeting at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel:
Africa Westminster Ballroom 1&3 Australia Park Suites 1&2 British Islands and Mediterranean Westminster
Ballroom 2 Canada Park Suites 6 &7 Caribbean, the Americas and the Atlantic Park
Suites 3 & 4 India Westminster Ballroom 4
Regional Group Meetings at the Park Plaza County Hall hotel:
Asia Putney & Westminster Room Pacific Millennium & Battersea Room South East Asia Vauxhall & Lambeth Room
1245-1400 Lunch for all delegates including observers and spouses /partners accredited to the conference
Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
Transport to Houses of Parliament and security checks
1600-1645 Official Opening of the 57th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference
Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament
1650-1750 Plenary: Addresses by the Secretaries-General of the Commonwealth and Commonwealth Parliamentary Association followed by Question and Answer Session
Westminster Hall, Houses of Parliament
35
1800-1900 CPA Secretary-General's reception for Clerks, Secretaries and Secretaries to Delegations and accompanying persons (by invitation)
Lords Terrace, Houses of Parliament
1900-2200 Dinner hosted by the Clerk of the House of Commons and Clerk of Parliaments for Clerks, Secretaries, Secretaries to the Delgations and their spouses/partners (by invitation)
Members and Strangers Dining Rooms, Houses of Parliament
1800-1900 Reception hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons and Lord Speaker, for Speakers, Presiding Officers, Leaders of Delegations and their spouses/partners (by invitation)
Speaker's House, Houses of Parliament
1900-2200 Dinner hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons and Lord Speaker for Speakers, presiding Officers, Leaders of Delegations and their spouses/partners (by invitation)
Royal Gallery, Houses of Parliament
1830-2030 Dinner for all other delegates, observers and spouses/partners accredited to the conference
Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel DAY 6: TUESDAY, 26 JULY 2011
0800-1045 CWP Meeting Westminster Ballroom 2, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel
1100-1330 Workshops A-D Westminster Ballrooms 1-4, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel A– Host Branch Topic (TBC) B– 'Parliament and Reforms–Raising the
Benchmarks'
36
C– 'Commonwealth Initiatives in Handling Migration Issues'
D– 'Enhancing Good Governance and Accountability: Improving Standards of Probity and Performance'
1330-1430 Lunch for all delegates and observers Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1430-1700 Workshops E–H Westminster Ballrooms 1-4, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel
E– 'The World Economy and Obstacles facing the Commonwealth'
F– 'Women as Agents of Change: Where Are We Now? The Way Forward'
G– 'Technological Threats to International, National and Personal Security'
H– 'The Role of Parliamentarians in Advancing the Transfer to Agricultural Technology and Research'
0900-1630 48th Annual Meeting of SOCATT, including lunch Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, Houses of Parliament
1800-2200 Centennial Cultural Evening (by invitation) Houses of Parliament DAY 7: WEDNESDAY 27 JULY 2011
0900-1315 General Assembly, elections and receiving of plaques Westminster Ballrooms, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel
1315-1415 Lunch for all delegates and observers Plaza Floor, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1415-1530 Centennial Plenary 'Reinforcing Democracy' Westminster Ballrooms, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel
37
1530-1700 Plenary 'Commonwealth Parliaments: Progress and Challenges'
Westminster Ballrooms, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel
1700-1800 Closing Ceremony Westminster Ballrooms, Park Plaza Westminster
Bridge hotel
1800-1900 Meeting of the new Executive Committee Plaza Suites 1-3, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
hotel
0900-1630 48th Annual Meeting of SOCATT, including lunch Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, Houses of Parliament
Free Evening and Departures DAY 8: THURSDAY, 28 JULY 2011 All day Departure of Delegates Notes 1. Check-in at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel is 1400,
check-out is 1200. 2. The only meals provided are those indicated in the
programme. During the conference period breakfast will be provided to all delegates who have been accommodated at the hotel the previous night.
38
Annexure-II
Document GA Agenda General Assembly Meeting
Westminster Ballrooms Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel
London, United Kingdom 27 July, 2011
AGENDA
Documents numbered to match agenda items 1. Welcome and opening remarks by the
President 2. Apologies for Absence 3. Minutes of the Last Meeting held in Nairobi GA3 4. Matters arising from the Minutes GA4 5. Election of Chairperson of the Executive
Committee GA5 6. Reports of the Executive Committee – to
receive (i) Annual Report for 2010 (as printed) GA6(i) (ii) Interim Report for the period 1 January
to 30 April 2011 GA6(ii) 7. Membership Report GA7 8. Audited Accounts and Balance Sheet for the
year ended 31 December 2010 – to receive. GA8 9. Draft Budgets and Financial Management
Reports: (i) Headquarter Secretariat Budget 2011
(updated) – to receive. GA9(i) (ii) Secretariat Financial Management
Report for the period ended 30 April 2011 – to receive. GA9(ii)
39
(iii) Working Capital Fund Annual Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2010 – to note. GA9(iii)
(iv) Working Capital Fund Budget 2011, 2012 and 2013 – to note. GA9(iv)
(v) Working Capital Fund Financial Management Report for the Period ended 30 April 2011– to note. GA9(v)
(vi) Conference Assistance Fund Annual Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2010 – to note. GA9(vi)
(vii) Conference Assistance Fund Budget 2011, 2012 and 2013 – to note. GA9(vii)
(viii) Conference Assistance Fund Financial Management Report for the period ended 30 April 2011 –to note. GA9(viii)
10. Appointment of External Auditors GA10 11. Recommendations from the Executive
committee to the General Assembly: GA11 12. Elections due at General Assembly GA12 13. Proposals to Amend the Rules for Conducting
Contested Elections GA13 14. Matters Submitted by Branches GA14 15. Report of the 30th Conference of members
from Small Branches Oral 16. Report of the Commonwealth Women
Parliamentarian Oral 17. Report on Future Venues GA17 18. Presentation of Plaques to Retiring Members
of the Executive Committee Oral 19. Any Other Business Oral 20. Oral
40
Annexure-III
57th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference London, United Kingdom
21-28 July, 2011
LIST OF DELEGATES FROM STATE CPA BRANCHES
Sl. No. Name of CPA Branch/Delegates
1. Andhra Pradesh Branch Shri Nadendla Manohar Speaker Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly
2. Arunachal Pradesh Mr. Wanglin Lowangdong Speaker Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Smt. Chasuam Wangchadong (Spouse)
3. Assam Branch Shri Pranab Gogoi Speaker Assam Legislative Assembly
Smt. Mohini Gogoi (Spouse)
Shri Tanka Bahadur Rai, Minister, Govt. of Assam & Regional Representative CPA India Region Smt. Chandra Maya Rai (Spouse)
4. Bihar Branch Shri Uday Narain Choudhary Speaker Bihar Vidhan Sabha
5. Chhattisgarh Branch Shri Dharam Lal Kaushik Speaker Chhatisgarh Legislative Assembly
41
6. Goa Branch Shri Pratapsingh Raoji Rane Speaker Goa Legislative Assembly Smt. Vijayadevi Rane (Spouse)
7. Gujarat Branch Shri Ganpatsinh V. Vasava Speaker, Gujarat Legislative Assembly
Smt. Neelamben Ganpatsinh Vasava (Spouse)
8. Haryana Branch Shri Kuldeep Sharma Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha
Smt. Neelam Sharma (Spouse)
Sardar Harmohinder Singh Chhatha, Minister of Finance, Govt. of Haryana & Regional Representative CPA India Region
9. Himachal Pradesh Branch Shri Tulsi Ram, Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly
Smt. Leela Sharma, (Spouse)
10. Jammu and Kashmir Branch Mohd. Akbar Lone Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly
Aishya Begum, Spouse
11. Jharkhand Branch Shri Chandreshwar Prasad Singh Speaker Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha
42
12. Karnataka Branch Shri D. H Shankaramurthy, Chairman , Karnataka Legislative Council
13. Kerala Branch Shri G. Karthikeyan, Speaker, Kerala Legislative Assembly
Dr. M T Sulekha (Spouse)
14. Madhya Pradesh Branch Not attended
15. Maharashtra Branch Shri Vasant Davkhare Deputy Chairman Maharashtra Legislative Council
16. Manipur Branch Shri I. Hemochandra Singh Speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly
Smt. Brajarani Koijam (Spouse)
17. Meghalaya Branch Shri Charles Pyngrope, Speaker, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly
Smt. S M Tellis (Spouse)
18. Mizoram Branch Shri R. Romawia, Speaker, Mizoram Legislative Assembly
Smt. Vanlalkimi (Spouse)
19. Nagaland Branch Shri Kiyanilie Peseyie Speaker Nagaland Legislative Assembly
Smt. Vilekhono Nagi (Spouse)
43
20. Orissa Branch Shri Pradip Kumar Amat Speaker Orissa Legislative Assembly
21. Punjab Branch Sardar Nirmal Singh Kahlon, Speaker, Punjab Legislative Assembly
Smt. Sawinder Kaur, (Spouse)
22. Rajasthan Branch Not attended
23. Sikkim Branch Shri M B Dahal DeputySpeaker , Sikkim Legislative Assembly
Smt. Bal Kumari Dahal (Spouse)
24. Tamil Nadu Branch Not attended
25. Tripura Branch Shri Ramendra Chandra Debnath Speaker Tripura Legislative Assembly
26. Uttarakhand Branch Shri Harbans Kapoor Speaker Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly
Smt. Savita Kapoor (Spouse)
27. Uttar Pradesh Branch Not attended
28. West Bengal Branch Shri Biman Bandyopadhyay, Speaker West Bengal Legislative Assembly
Smt. Nandita Banerjee (Spouse)
44
29. Delhi Branch Dr. Yoganand Shastri Speaker Delhi Legislative Assembly
Smt. Damyanti Shastri (Spouse)
30 Puducherry Branch Not attended
Delegation Secretaries
(i) Shri N.B. Subhedar Secretary, Goa Legislative Assembly
(ii) Shri Girish Jha Secretary-in-Charge, Bihar Legislative Assembly
(iii) Shri Ngurthanzuala Secretary Mizoram Legislative Assembly
(iv) Mohd. Ramzan Secretary J&K Legislative Assembly Society of Clerks-at-the table meeting
1. Dr. S. Raja Sadaram Secretary Andhra Pradesh Legislature
2. Shri Goverdhan Singh Secretary, Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha
3. Shri Devendra Verma Secretary, Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly
4. Shri Mahesh Chandra, Pr. Secretary, Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly