The 86th All India Presiding Officers’ Conference (AIPOC) was inaugurated on January 19, 2026, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, marking the beginning of a three-day national-level dialogue on strengthening democratic institutions and legislative functioning. The conference brings together Presiding Officers from across the country to deliberate on key institutional challenges facing India’s legislative bodies.
The event was formally inaugurated by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt. Anandiben Patel, and features participation from Presiding Officers of 28 State Legislative Assemblies, 3 Union Territories, and 6 Legislative Councils.
Prime Minister Modi Conveys Greetings to Delegates
At the inaugural session, the Speaker of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Shri Satish Mahana, read out a message of greetings from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, congratulating the organizers and participants for the successful conduct of the prestigious conference. The Prime Minister extended his best wishes for productive deliberations aimed at strengthening democratic governance in the country.
Om Birla Emphasises Impartiality of Presiding Officers
Delivering the keynote address, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla stressed that the conduct of every Presiding Officer must rise above political affiliations.
“The conduct of a Presiding Officer must be above party politics. It must be fair, impartial, and must also appear to be fair,” he said.
He highlighted that the dignity and credibility of legislative institutions depend significantly on the neutrality and discipline maintained by those who preside over proceedings.
Concern Over Declining Sitting Days of Legislatures
Shri Birla expressed serious concern over the declining time devoted to the functioning of State Legislatures across the country. He emphasized the urgent need to ensure fixed and adequate sitting time for legislative bodies.
“The longer the House functions, the more meaningful, serious and outcome-oriented discussions can take place,” the Speaker observed.
He added that legislatures are the primary platforms through which the voices and aspirations of citizens reach the government, making their effective functioning critical for democracy.
Need for Discipline in the Age of Social Media
The Lok Sabha Speaker also pointed out that in the era of digital media and instant public scrutiny, the conduct of public representatives is continuously observed by citizens.
He emphasized that maintaining parliamentary decorum, discipline, and dignity is essential to preserve the credibility of legislative institutions. According to him, protecting the sanctity of the House is a collective responsibility of all members.
AIPOC Strengthens Democratic Cooperation
Shri Birla noted that platforms such as the All India Presiding Officers’ Conference play a vital role in:
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Promoting cooperation among democratic institutions
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Strengthening coordination between legislatures
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Encouraging harmony in governance and welfare policies
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Improving the overall effectiveness of democratic functioning
He further stressed the importance of providing greater opportunities to young and first-time legislators, ensuring that legislatures remain vibrant platforms for public representation.
Key Themes of the Conference
Over the next two days, participants will engage in detailed plenary discussions on key themes, including:
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Use of technology in legislative processes
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Capacity building of legislators
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Accountability of legislatures to the people
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Strengthening democratic institutions
The conference will conclude on January 21, 2026, with the valedictory address by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, followed by a media interaction.
Uttar Pradesh Hosts AIPOC for the Fourth Time
This is the fourth occasion that Uttar Pradesh is hosting the prestigious AIPOC. The state had earlier hosted the conference in:
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December 1961
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October 1985
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January–February 2015
Conclusion
The 86th AIPOC reflects India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening parliamentary democracy and institutional integrity. With a focus on neutrality, accountability, technological integration, and increased legislative functioning, the conference aims to reinforce the foundations of democratic governance across the country.
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Source: PIB
