Om Birla Urges Youth to Lead India’s Journey to Viksit Bharat

Addressing participants from across the country, Shri Birla reminded them of the significance of the venue, which has witnessed many defining moments in India's democratic journey.

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla called upon young Indians to take an active role in shaping the country's future as he inaugurated the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026 at the historic Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in New Delhi. The programme has been organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) of the Lok Sabha Secretariat.

Addressing participants from across the country, Shri Birla reminded them of the significance of the venue, which has witnessed many defining moments in India's democratic journey. He described the Constitution of India as a guiding force for the nation and encouraged the youth to draw inspiration from its values while discussing the vision of a developed India.

Youth at the Centre of India's Future

Highlighting the growing scale of youth participation in democratic initiatives, Shri Birla noted that more than five million young people are now connected with the Youth Parliament programme. He said the gathering reflected the diversity of India, bringing together participants from different states, cultures and languages who share a common goal of contributing to the nation's development.

According to him, the responsibility of achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 will largely rest on the younger generation. He praised the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for creating platforms that encourage leadership, dialogue and civic engagement among young citizens. Shri Birla also stressed that democratic values have deep roots in India's history. He said the country's democratic traditions evolved through ancient institutions such as Sabhas and Samitis and continue to thrive through active public participation and strong institutions.

Constitution Ensures Equality for Every Citizen

Speaking about the Constitution, the Lok Sabha Speaker credited its framers for ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens from the very beginning of the Republic. He pointed out that India adopted universal adult franchise immediately after Independence, giving equal voting rights to men and women at a time when several countries were still debating such reforms.

He said the principles of justice, equality and opportunity remain the foundation of India's democratic system and continue to guide the country's progress.

The Speaker also highlighted the role of youth as drivers of innovation and social transformation. He described young Indians as a generation equipped with fresh ideas, energy and determination to address future challenges and build a stronger nation.

Women's Leadership Driving Change

A significant part of Shri Birla's address focused on the growing role of women in governance and public life. He noted that women are making important contributions across sectors including science, technology, agriculture and national security.

Referring to local governance, he said women's participation in Panchayati Raj institutions and local bodies has reached nearly 50 percent in several states. He described the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a major step towards increasing women's representation in Parliament and state legislatures.

Calling on young people to embrace public service with empathy and accountability, Shri Birla said leadership is ultimately measured by commitment to citizens and society. He expressed hope that the Youth Parliament participants would carry forward the spirit of democratic responsibility and contribute meaningfully to India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Lok Sabha Secretary-General Shri Utpal Kumar Singh and Youth Affairs Secretary Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil were also present at the event.