First National Conference of Urban Local Bodies at Manesar

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the first National Level Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) from various States and Union Territories at the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana, on Thursday, 3rd July 2025. The two-day conference is themed “Role of Urban Local Bodies in Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and Nation Building”, and brings together leaders and policymakers to deliberate on the evolving role of ULBs in India's democratic and developmental journey.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Shri Om Birla emphasized that Urban Local Bodies—which include municipal corporations, municipalities, and town councils—are among the strongest pillars of democracy in India. These institutions function at the grassroots level and directly connect citizens with governance, thus playing a pivotal role in fulfilling local needs and aspirations. Strengthening these bodies, according to Shri Birla, is essential not just for efficient governance but also for reinforcing the democratic ethos of the nation. He also stressed the importance of the smooth conduct of proceedings—from Parliament down to local councils—as disruptions and adjournments can hinder decision-making and ultimately hurt public aspirations.

Also present at the event, Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh echoed similar sentiments, stating that the chosen theme would help reinforce the roots of Indian democracy. He highlighted that empowering ULBs in each state contributes significantly to the overall democratic strength of the country. Shri Nayab Singh also referred to the central government’s ambitious Smart Cities Mission, under which 100 cities have been identified for development into technologically enabled, sustainable urban hubs. Haryana is actively participating in this mission, with Faridabad and Karnal being developed as Smart Cities.

The objective of the conference is to provide a national platform to reflect on and redefine the role of Urban Local Bodies in a rapidly urbanizing India. India is witnessing an accelerated pace of urbanization, and ULBs are at the forefront of tackling associated challenges while ensuring inclusive growth and sustainable development. The event aims to strengthen democratic institutions, promote inter-state exchange of best practices, and explore innovative approaches to modern urban governance.

Over the two days, delegates from across the country will engage in in-depth discussions on five core themes:

1. ULBs as Foundational Pillars of Democracy: Focusing on the development of model practices, structured procedures, and a code of conduct for General Council Meetings. These meetings are key deliberative sessions where elected representatives discuss municipal policies and decisions.

2. ULBs as Engines of Inclusive Growth and Development: Emphasizing reforms to make municipal governance more effective in fulfilling its constitutional mandate—i.e., the legal duties and functions granted to them by the Constitution (mainly via the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act).

3. ULBs as Architects of 21st Century India: Highlighting their role in achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, which marks the 100th year of India’s independence.

4. ULBs as Vehicles of Women’s Empowerment: Exploring how local governance can contribute to grooming women leaders, promoting gender equity, and creating space for women's participation in political and administrative processes.

5. ULBs as Crucibles of Innovation and Best Practices: Aiming to improve public service delivery, enhance the quality of urban life, and promote replicable solutions to common urban challenges.

In addition to these discussions, the conference will also explore ULBs’ roles in meeting goals related to infrastructure, sustainability, citizen participation, and transparent governance. As India marches toward becoming a developed nation, such forums provide a much-needed push toward institutional capacity building and encourage policy innovation at the local level.

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