Chandigarh Member of Parliament (MP) Manish Tewari on Monday expressed his support for the proposed Greater Chandigarh Region (GCR) framework, describing it as a key step for integrated planning and sustainable development across the Tricity.
Speaking at an interaction hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – Indian Women Network (IWN) and Young Indians (Yi), Chandigarh Chapter, Tewari emphasised the need for a metropolitan approach, moving beyond piecemeal interventions, similar to the National Capital Region (NCR).
“As one of India’s most thoughtfully planned cities, Chandigarh is at a critical juncture,” he said. “A Metro network can become the backbone of integration between Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, connecting people to opportunity and creating a seamless ecosystem for growth. At the same time, we need empowered local governance with a directly elected mayor serving a full five-year term for stability and accountability.”
Also Read : BJP uses Tewari's 'Nepo Kids' post to target Rahul Gandhi
The GCR initiative, driven by CII Chandigarh, aims to harmonise policies and foster regional economic integration. “With the Tricity region supporting a large population, urgent steps are needed for coordinated governance,” said Vivek Verma, vice-chairman of CII Chandigarh. “The GCR vision offers a bold framework, much like the NCR model around Delhi.”
The session also highlighted IWN’s initiatives, including advocacy for menstrual leave, the Pink Booth campaign to improve hygiene and safety infrastructure, and the forthcoming Women’s Wellness Summit.
“Empowering women is not just a moral imperative — it’s an economic necessity,” said Ritika Singh, chairperson of IWN Chandigarh and CEO of Kontent Factory. “Our initiatives bridge policy, industry and grassroots realities while challenging stigma and promoting inclusivity.”
The discussion concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between policymakers, industry and civil society. Tewari pledged to take forward regional priorities, including urban mobility, air connectivity, skilling, and women’s empowerment, at the national level.
Follow us
