Dharamshala, June 29, 2025 — The scenic town of Dharamshala will host the Annual Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone-II from 30th June to 1st July 2025. Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla will inaugurate the two-day event at Tapovan, Himachal Pradesh.
This year’s theme is: “Good Governance in the Digital Era: Managing Resources, Defending Democracy, and Embracing Innovation.” The event brings together legislators from Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab.
Dignitaries to Attend the Inaugural Session
Several high-profile leaders will participate in the opening ceremony, including:
- Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh
- Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- Shri Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Speaker, HP Legislative Assembly
- Shri Jai Ram Thakur, Leader of Opposition, HP Assembly
- Shri Harshwardhan Chauhan, Parliamentary Affairs Minister, HP
Plenary Sessions and Key Topics
The conference will host multiple plenary discussions addressing crucial legislative and governance challenges, including:
- Legislatures’ Role in Managing State Resources for Development
- Disqualification Provisions under the 10th Schedule of Articles 102(2) and 191(2)
- Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Legislative Practices
Governor’s Valedictory Address
The closing session on 1st July 2025 will be addressed by Shri Shiv Pratap Shukla, Governor of Himachal Pradesh. He will offer valedictory remarks and reflect on the key takeaways of the conference.
Spiritual Interaction with Dalai Lama
One of the most awaited highlights of the event is a special interaction with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, offering spiritual insight amidst discussions on democracy and innovation.
Strengthening Parliamentary Democracy
The conference aims to build a common platform for lawmakers to exchange best practices, embrace digital innovations, and promote transparent and efficient governance.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is a global network of over 180 parliaments and legislatures. The India Region is one of its largest and most active, divided into nine zones for effective coordination.