New Delhi, October 8, 2026: The Indian Parliamentary Delegation, led by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Shri Harivansh, continued its participation in the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, Tanzania, on October 7.
During the third day of the Assembly, Shri Harivansh participated in the General Debate on “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all.” He called on parliamentarians to strengthen transparency, uphold accountability and work towards building public trust as key elements of effective governance.
Indian MPs Participate in Various IPU Discussions
Several members of the Indian delegation took part in discussions and workshops covering a range of international and contemporary issues.
Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, participated in a workshop focusing on mental health across generations, including challenges linked to digital overload, economic pressures and uncertainty.
Smt. Aparajita Sarangi, MP, Lok Sabha, participated in a panel discussion on the role of the UN country team in Tanzania in the context of efforts to reform the United Nations system.
Smt. Bijuli Kalita Medhi, MP, Lok Sabha, participated in discussions on science and technology and sustainable development. She also took part in deliberations concerning parliamentary leadership to protect mountain and ocean ecosystems and achieve the target of conserving 30 per cent of such ecosystems by 2030.
Smt. Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP, Lok Sabha, participated in discussions concerning international humanitarian law and the role of parliaments in promoting peace. She also attended a workshop on ethical artificial intelligence and child rights.
Other members of the delegation also participated in sessions covering climate change, food systems, maritime security, international navigation and critical infrastructure.
India Holds Bilateral Meetings
The Indian Parliamentary Delegation also held a bilateral meeting with Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of Russia. The two sides discussed issues of mutual interest.
Shri Harivansh also met Tulia Ackson, outgoing President of the IPU, and appreciated her efforts to strengthen inclusive and vibrant functioning of the organisation.
The Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha separately met Anda Filip, who was elected Secretary General of the IPU at its 152nd Assembly in Istanbul. She is the first woman to hold the position in the IPU’s 137-year history. The Secretary-General conveyed India’s support for the organisation’s objectives of promoting democracy and peace.
India Supports Emergency Item on Himalayan Climate Resilience
The Indian delegation also participated in voting for the inclusion of an emergency item in the Assembly’s agenda.
The proposal, titled “Urgent parliamentary action to address climate-related disasters and strengthen resilience in the Himalayan region and other vulnerable regions,” was put forward by Nepal and supported by India, among other countries. The IPU President subsequently announced its adoption as an emergency item for the 153rd Assembly.
The Indian delegation’s participation reflects India’s engagement with international parliamentary forums and discussions on governance, sustainable development, peace, technology and climate resilience.
