The 74th conference of presiding officers of the legislative assemblies of the country began in Bhopal on Wednesday. Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar inaugurated it. She emphasized the need for paying more attention towards improving the functioning of the legislative bodies to the maximum benefit of general public.AIR Bhopal correspondent reports that presiding officers from 36 state assemblies are participating in the five day conference.Addressing the conference Mrs. Meira Kumar expressed concern over the deteriorating performance of the legislatures. She said that debates and discussions which are the hall mark of the democracy are often marked by disruptions and various non democratic activities.Mrs. Meira Kumar said that in such a situation it becomes imperative for our legislative bodies across the country to make self assessment with regard to their functioning in meeting the aspirations and expectations of the people at large.Mrs. Meira Kumar also inaugurated two exhibitions on this occasion. The conference is being held in Bhopal after 20 years. Earlier it was held in year 1989.