The Chinese Government holds the annual NPC and CPPCC sessions to solicit public opinions and set development plans that better serve the people.

Grandma Lu and her husband Grandpa Yang are native Beijingers. Reading newspapers has been part of their daily routine for many years.

They're currently paying special attention to one of China's most important political events, the NPC and CPPCC sessions.

Grandma Lu says she keeps a keen eye on how government policies relate to their lives.

Ms. Lu, Beijing resident, said, "Public welfare is the major topic on the agenda during the discussions of the NPC and CPPCC Sessions, isn't it? Once the people's wellbeing is improved, the Chinese government will be free from worry, and of course, the whole nation will be better."

Living up to the expectations of the people is always a goal that China's lawmakers and political advisers work hard to achieve.

The NPC and CPPCC sessions are held every year to boost economic and social development. Most importantly, they aim to improve people's wellbeing and solve problems that affect people's day-to-day interests.

For Grandpa Yang, what he's most interested in is going outside to take some fresh air. But even that can't be taken for granted these days.

Ms. Lu said, "Heavy smog has been preventing you from going outside. Don't worry. The government is making efforts to handle this environmental issue."

Ms. Xu is a domestic helper taking care of the elderly couple. She's a migrant worker from a rural village in Gansu province.

Ms. Lu said, "The living conditions in rural areas are poorer than that in cities. But I hope that situation will change in the future, I hope people in villages will enjoy the same living conditions as those in cities. I hope our children can be excellent enough to go to live in the cities."

The concerns raised by this family for the NPC and CPPCC can be seen as representing the thoughts of millions of Chinese people. Growing ageing population, air pollution and unprecedented urbanization are all pressing issues the Chinese Government needs to address. The new leadership of the country seems to have aroused people's hope to higher standards. The key question is whether the words and actions of the leadership can be effectively implemented to match heightened expectations of the people.

(CNTV.cn March 3, 2013)