Greater role for women, public participation key to people

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday underscored the importance of increasing women’s participation in governance, stating that greater representation would bring enhanced sensitivity to policymaking and make it more people-centric.

Addressing the valedictory session of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone VII Conference, Birla said Indian women are excelling across sectors such as business, education and science, and their growing role should be reflected in legislative processes as well.

Referring to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, he noted that increased participation of women in lawmaking would help align policies more closely with societal needs and bring fresh perspectives to governance.

Highlighting the role of technology, Birla said emerging tools like Artificial Intelligence are strengthening communication between governments and citizens, thereby enhancing democratic engagement. However, he cautioned that technology should be used productively, especially by youth, as a tool to build skills rather than waste time.

He emphasised that greater public participation leads to more meaningful and effective policymaking, adding that inclusive dialogue is key to strengthening democratic institutions.

The conference brought together legislators from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa, along with representatives from other states, to deliberate on key issues including coastal development, tourism and innovation. Birla noted that these states have demonstrated successful models of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, citing initiatives such as “Neer Kranti” and efforts to boost employment and industrial development.

Governor of Goa P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju delivered the valedictory address, while Goa Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar welcomed the participants. Deputy Speaker Joshua D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks.

Birla said the conference, which saw participation from 31 legislators and presiding officers from multiple states, helped outline a roadmap for collaborative growth. He expressed confidence that the exchange of ideas and best practices would contribute to achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.