4th Annual Devolution Conference to focus on good governance

The 4th Annual Devolution Conference, to be held here from Monday till March 9, would focus on increasing good governance and public accountability.

Minister of State for Finance Arjun Ram Meghwal is representing India and has reached Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, for the conference to share experience of the devolution system and its progress in India, a statement from the Finance Ministry said on Monday.

"The objective of the conference also includes sharing the good experience of devolution system and how it can be used to increase good governance and public accountability for social and economic development internationally," the statement said.

"Meghwal would specifically highlight the 73rd-74th constitutional amendments and provisions for strengthening the local governance in India," it said.

The minister, who will inaugurate the conference, will also talk about the revenue sharing between the Centre and the states as well as showcase the smooth devolution of the Union's net tax receipts to the states, from the earlier 32 per cent share in the 13th Finance Commission to 42 per cent on the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission.

Around 10,000 delegates from different regions, including African nations and China, are participating in the conference, organised by its member countries and hosted by Kenya.

"The Members of Parliament, Leaders of Opposition from all states, professionals, representative of various civil societies, religious and social organisations from Kenya will also take part in the conference," the statement said.

--IANS

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