Om Birla Highlights Women Empowerment At Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday highlighted the importance of women-led development initiatives while addressing the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026, saying that programmes such as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam represent a significant step towards strengthening representation in India’s democratic institutions. The event was inaugurated in the Central Hall of the old Parliament House, where Birla addressed young participants and reminded them that they were speaking from a space deeply associated with India’s democratic journey.

He said the venue symbolises the country’s long-standing parliamentary traditions and continues to inspire new generations of leaders. Referring to legislative reforms aimed at increasing women’s participation in governance, Birla said initiatives linked to “Nari Shakti” reflect the country’s commitment to inclusive representation. He stressed that greater participation of women in decision-making structures is essential for achieving the broader vision of a developed India.

Describing the Constitution as a guiding framework for citizens, Birla encouraged young participants to take inspiration from India’s democratic institutions while contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He said the responsibility of shaping the country’s future rests significantly on the youth, who form a large and active segment of the population. He also noted that more than five million young people are now associated with the Youth Parliament programme, calling it a platform that brings together participants from diverse linguistic, cultural, and regional backgrounds.  According to him, this diversity strengthens the shared commitment to democratic values and nation-building.

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Birla further emphasised that India’s democratic system is deeply rooted in its civilisational traditions, stating that participatory governance existed in ancient institutions such as Sabhas and Samitis. He said these traditions laid the foundation for modern democratic practices that have evolved over the past several decades. Concluding his remarks, the Lok Sabha Speaker said India’s democratic journey is unique and has grown stronger since Independence despite its diversity. He urged young participants to play an active role in strengthening democratic values and contributing to the country’s long-term development goals.

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