Celebrating 75 years of legislature with glitz, glamour and glory

The Maharashtra government will commemorate 75 years of the state legislature in a big way and has asked schools, colleges in the state to conduct year-long events on democracy and constitution to mark event. The legislature came into being in July 1935.

“July 19 marks the 75th year of Maharashtra legislature and we have asked schools and colleges to create awareness of our democratic set-up and plan to organise events like a hour-long essay competition, debates and other such programmes,” a senior official said.

Sources said there were plans to make live the telecast of question hour from the ensuing monsoon session beginning on July 25 by launching two dedicated channels to be managed by Vidhan Bhawan on the lines of the TV channels of the Parliament.

The festivities will go on for the whole year with cultural activities that have been planned in educational institutions.

“And it will not just be for a day, but there are plans to organise year-long set of cultural programmes in schools and colleges. Schools and colleges have been asked to involve local representatives, leaders and citizens,” he added.

The celebrations are likely to be attended by president Pratibha Patil and other major national leaders.

Other programmes planned during the event include book releases, notable speeches delivered in the house and history of the state legislature.

The state has two houses of the legislature. While the strength of the assembly is 289 members, including a nominated member, the council has 78 members.