Manesar (Haryana) [India], July 16 (HBTV): Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh addressed the valedictory session of the National Level Conference of Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies in Manesar, Haryana, on Friday.

In his address, Harivansh emphasised the importance of civic governance in enhancing quality of life and reiterated the broader objective of 'Ease of Living' as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He lauded the innovative efforts of various Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in tackling local challenges using technology and optimising resource utilisation. ‘Since 2014, alongside the emphasis on Ease of Doing Business, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also worked towards Ease of Living. In this regard, the role of Urban Local Bodies is even more important,’ he said.

He underscored the critical role of ULBs in responding to civic demands, digitising access to essential services, and improving solid waste management practices.

Calling for participatory governance, Harivansh urged urban body heads to ensure transparency in budget allocations and emphasised the importance of outcome-based governance. He also recalled earlier recommendations to strengthen accounting and auditing standards in ULBs.

Highlighting the constitutional provisions, the Deputy Chairman stressed the need for state governments to decentralise authority and empower local bodies to effectively implement the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments.

‘Many states have not fully taken the recommendations of the State Finance Commissions to empower local bodies financially and administratively. It is the urban schemes planned by the Union Government and the efforts of the Union Finance Commission that have supported the implementation of key projects at the city level,’ he said.

As cities increase their contribution to the country’s GDP, Harivansh urged elected representatives to focus on future challenges. ‘With the increase in economic activities in urban areas, our emissions will rise too. Therefore, addressing the concerns arising out of climate change and implementing sustainable practices in our urban areas are also important,’ he said.

In his concluding remarks, he stated that the governance of urban areas would be vital in achieving India’s goal of becoming a developed country by 2047. He called for urban governance to become more inclusive and participatory to transform it into a people’s movement.

The two-day programme in Manesar was also addressed by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The conference featured presentations from various cities showcasing best practices in different segments of civic governance.

(ANI)