On July 3, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the first-ever national-level conference of chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) at the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar, Gurugram. The two-day event, themed “Role of Urban Local Bodies in Strengthening Constitutional Democracy and Nation Building,” aimed to underscore the critical role of ULBs in India’s democratic framework and its rapidly evolving urban landscape. The inaugural session was attended by prominent figures, including Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh, and Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Harvinder Kalyan, along with other dignitaries.
The conference brought together municipal leaders from across states and union territories to deliberate on the current and future contributions of ULBs in fostering a stronger, more inclusive India. Discussions focused on enhancing urban governance, addressing challenges in urban development, and strengthening the role of ULBs in nation-building. This landmark event marked a significant step toward empowering local bodies to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s urban and democratic future.
The conference will cover the following key themes and discussions:
The conference highlights successful urban governance models while fostering a collaborative platform for ideation and replicable reforms across India. On July 4, five thematic groups will present on discussed sub-topics, with the valedictory session addressed by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya, alongside Deputy Chairman Harivansh and Speaker Harvinder Kalyan.
Delegates will tour Prerna Sthal, Samvidhan Sadan, and Parliament House, emphasizing the connection between grassroots governance and national policymaking. Amid rapid urbanization, the event empowers local leadership and strengthens urban local bodies (ULBs) for participatory democracy.
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