Parliamentary Forums provide MPs an informal, structured platform to discuss critical national issues, enhancing informed participation in parliamentary debates and committee proceedings.

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• Parliamentary Forums are informal discussion platforms enabling Members of Parliament to understand emerging policy issues without preparing reports or encroaching upon parliamentary committee jurisdictions.

• First constituted in August 2005 with the Water Conservation Forum, these bodies expanded gradually, reflecting Parliament’s focus on specialized, cross-cutting national concerns.

• Currently, eight Parliamentary Forums operate, covering water management, children, youth, population and public health, climate change, disaster management, artisans, and development goals.

• The Speaker of Lok Sabha serves as ex-officio President for most forums, ensuring institutional oversight and balanced coordination between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members.

• Each forum has a limited membership drawn from both Houses, with experts invited to share research, practical insights, and global best practices during meetings.

• Forums aim to sensitize MPs, facilitate interaction with ministers and experts, and strengthen evidence-based discussions for effective policy articulation in Parliament.