Two-day training for new MLAs begins

SHILLONG: A two-day orientation programme aimed at making the newly elected members of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly familiar with the proceedings and conduct of business in the House began here on Thursday.
The training is being conducted by the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, Lok Sabha.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Raghunandan Sharma, advisor of the Bureau of Parliamentary Studies and Training, said policy makers from across the globe come to India to learn the Indian Democracy.
Making a clarion call to the MLAs to come prepared in the Assembly when the House is in session, he said ‘what MLAs speak is more important than the length of their speech’.
He also stressed on the need for young MLAs to follow their seniors saying that the experience of senior MLAs will be a guiding force for the younger members.
Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira said the orientation programme will enhance the efficiency of the members of the House.
Echoing similar views, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma maintained that the proceedings of the Assembly were complex. “We need to be productive and the bottom line is we should have quality discussion,” he added.
Urging the MLAs to do their homework before they speak in the Assembly, the chief minister advised the members to read a lot – be it policies or any other topic – and always maintain discipline. The two-day orientation programme for the MLAs will have a session each on presentation of the Budget speech and the MLA scheme.