Shillong, Jan 21: Meghalaya Legislative Assembly has taken up a slew of measures to integrate modern technology into its functioning in order to improve its efficiency and productiveness in the legislative process.
“Adoption of modern technologies has led to substantial improvements in the efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity of legislative processes in Meghalaya,” said commissioner and secretary in-charge Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Andrew Simons in his address at the 85th All India Presiding Officers’ Conference that concluded on Tuesday.
The initiatives have helped ensure better governance and enhanced public access to legislative functions, the official said.
Simons accompanied assembly deputy speaker Timothy D Shira as the state representatives in the conference held from January 19 to 21 as part of 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution at Patna. It was inaugurated by Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Shri Harivansh.
Detailing the initiatives undertaken by the state assembly, including implementation of National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) project in 2022, Simons said, “Through NeVA, members can now make online submissions of questions, call attention notices, resolutions, and other proceedings.”
The Assembly has also launched an Assembly TV Channel to provide live coverage of proceedings and government events, ensuring greater transparency and public engagement.
Highlighting the assembly’s progress toward digitalisation, he said, “We have introduced AI for transcription of House proceedings, significantly aiding assembly reporters in compiling records swiftly.”
The members have been equipped with touch-screen tablets integrated with the NeVA In-House application, reducing the use of paper and promoting efficiency, Simons said.
He also announced Meghalaya’s consent to join the National Digital Grid and integrate with the Digital Sansad App, which aims to connect legislative bodies under one platform for seamless information sharing and greater accessibility.
Earlier, in his address, the deputy assembly speaker described the Constitution as a progressive and living document that serves as the soul of Indian democracy.
“The Constitution of India, adopted on 26th November 1949, is considered one of the most progressive in the world. It protects the rule of law and ensures democratic governance, social justice, and individual rights. It has been amended 106 times since its enactment in 1950, reflecting its responsiveness to the evolving needs of society,” Shira said.
He also discussed the role of Parliament and State Legislatures in promoting constitutional values.
“The Parliament of India and State Legislatures play a crucial role in upholding democratic governance, protecting individual rights, and fostering social justice. Landmark laws such as the Right to Information Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act are testaments to this commitment.”
He emphasized the role of legislative bodies in fostering accountability, transparency, and sustainable development, aligning with the Constitution’s core principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Shri Shira concluded by urging collective efforts to address modern challenges, such as climate change and social inequalities, in light of constitutional values.
The conference provided an important platform for dialogue and collaboration among presiding officers and legislative leaders across India. It marked a significant milestone in celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the need for collective action to uphold its values in an evolving world.
