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ORIENTATION PROGRAMME FOR MLAs

The need for proficiently qualified and knowledgeable legislators is paramount, especially for Jammu and Kashmir, a territory that has experienced considerable political and administrative transformations in recent years. A three-day orientation session was initiated for the elected members of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly to enhance governance and legislative processes. The program, scheduled for January 9 to 11, 2025, in the Central Hall of Jammu, is to furnish lawmakers with essential skills and knowledge to enhance their comprehension of the legislative framework, procedural rules, and Assembly operations.

The orientation program, collaboratively organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), the Lok Sabha Secretariat, and the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, aimed to furnish the legislators with a comprehensive understanding of parliamentary norms and practices. The program emphasizes not only the procedural rules and business conduct but also the enhancement of the legislative capabilities of its members. During the inaugural address, the Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly articulated a vision that this initiative would enhance the professional growth of the elected representatives. This represents a vital phase in guaranteeing that lawmakers possess not only an understanding of legislative procedures but also the ability to implement them proficiently in their functions. Through an understanding of parliamentary rules, committee structures, budget formulation, and governmental policies, legislators will enhance their capacity to engage thoughtfully in legislative debates and decision-making processes. The responsibilities of an MLA are complex, and to fulfill their duties to the public, legislators must grasp the nuances of governance and public administration. This orientation program establishes a fundamental basis for participants to improve their capacity to advocate for their constituents and partake in meaningful discussions that influence the legislative framework. A substantial portion of the program focused on examining the contributions of distinguished parliamentarians, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Pranab Mukherjee. The standards established by these figures exemplify exemplary parliamentary conduct, and the program inspired contemporary legislators to adopt their dignified and knowledgeable approach to parliamentary matters. The emphasis on the significance of dignified behavior within the Assembly is crucial for cultivating an environment of respect, discipline, and productive discourse. For democracy to flourish, it is essential that legislators uphold the highest standards of professionalism and dedication to the collective welfare, rather than resorting to divisive or counterproductive actions. Alongside the procedural elements, the program underscored the importance of comprehending and deliberating on the budget and centrally sponsored schemes. These are vital tools for development, particularly in a region like Jammu and Kashmir, where a large section of the population remains dependent on government schemes and policies. Understanding the intricacies of budget formulation and the implementation of government schemes will enable the legislators to better advocate for their constituencies and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently. The technical session, led by P.K. Mallick, Director of PRIDE, emphasized the role of the institute in building the capacity of legislators and promoting democratic values. Moreover, the committee system in Indian legislatures, which plays a crucial role in scrutinizing policies, budgets, and legislation, was also an area of focus during the program. Committees serve as a critical mechanism for ensuring that proposed policies are thoroughly examined and that government actions are held to account. By providing the legislators with the tools to effectively manage and contribute to committees, the programme seeks to improve the overall functioning of the legislative body. This collaboration between the executive and legislative branches is vital for ensuring that policies and laws are not only well-crafted but also effectively implemented on the ground.

The three-day orientation program for Jammu and Kashmir’s legislators comes at a critical time as the region navigates its evolving political landscape. The knowledge and skills imparted through this training will enhance the legislators’ ability to engage with and understand the issues facing their constituents, as well as help them contribute more effectively to the development agenda. It is essential that legislators are not just representatives in name but are equipped with the necessary tools to advocate for their people, hold the executive accountable, and legislate in a way that improves governance. The success of this program will depend on the legislators’ ability to internalize the lessons learned and apply them in their day-to-day work in the Assembly. The legislators are not only expected to represent their constituents but also to contribute to the development of the region and the country at large. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the legislative process, the program ensures that Jammu and Kashmir’s legislative body is better prepared to meet the challenges of the future and work towards a more transparent, efficient, and accountable system of governance.

 

 

 

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