India Proved the World Wrong: PM Modi Says Diversity Is the Backbone of Indian Democracy
PM Modi highlights how India's diversity has strengthened its democracy and driven development.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India has successfully turned its immense diversity into the greatest strength of its democracy, setting an example for the world. He made the remarks while inaugurating the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth at the Parliament House complex in New Delhi.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said many doubted whether democracy could survive in India after Independence due to its linguistic, cultural, and social diversity. Contrary to those expectations, he said, diversity became the foundation on which Indian democracy flourished and grew stronger over time.
PM Modi emphasized that democratic institutions and processes in India have provided stability, speed, and scale to the nation’s development. He compared Indian democracy to a large tree with deep roots, supported by a long tradition of debate, dialogue, and collective decision-making.
Also Read: Shashi Tharoor Says Nehru Founded Indian Democracy but Should Not Be Blamed for Everything
Highlighting governance outcomes, the Prime Minister said democracy in India is reflected in last-mile delivery, ensuring that development reaches every citizen. He added that India has consistently raised the concerns of the Global South on international platforms and placed their priorities at the centre during its G20 Presidency.
The three-day conference, being held from January 14 to 16 at the Samvidhan Sadan, is attended by around 60 Speakers and Presiding Officers from Commonwealth countries. Participants are deliberating on key parliamentary issues, including strengthening democratic institutions, the use of artificial intelligence in legislatures, the role of social media, and ways to enhance citizen participation beyond voting.
PM Modi said such discussions are vital to ensuring that democratic institutions remain resilient and responsive in a rapidly changing world. He expressed confidence that shared experiences among Commonwealth nations would help reinforce democratic values globally.
Also Read: PM Modi to Host 61 Global Parliamentary Leaders at 28th Commonwealth Speakers’ Conference Today