INDIA’S STRONG DEMOCRATIC FOUNDATIONS ARE ATTRACTING THE WORLD TO INVEST: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

INDIA’S STRONG DEMOCRATIC FOUNDATIONS ARE ATTRACTING THE WORLD TO INVEST: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

4-NOV-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

DELHI--------------------------Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said on Monday that the world is increasingly interested in investing in India, attracted by India's strong and vibrant democratic system. Highlighting India's remarkable economic and technological progress, he said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is rapidly progressing towards becoming a global economic superpower.

Mr. Birla emphasized the government's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment by promoting minimum government, maximum governance, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and enabling industrial expansion. Encouraging the private sector to increase investment in research and development and adapt to global standards, he welcomed the Prime Minister's assurance that the government will further such efforts and further strengthen India's progress towards global leadership in innovation.

Mr. Birla made these remarks at the 125th anniversary celebrations of the India Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata. The theme of the ceremony was “India@100: The Era of a New Dawn.” The event was attended by eminent leaders from the world of industry and commerce. It reflects India's economic progress and the nation's aspirations as it approaches its centenary of independence.

Describing the India Chamber of Commerce as a source of inspiration for business chambers across the country, Mr. Birla praised its unwavering commitment to public welfare and its pioneering efforts in promoting corporate social responsibility. He said that India's remarkable transformation in social and economic spheres—even in an increasingly complex global environment—is a testament to the vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of its business community.

Appreciating the institution's historic contribution to India's economic, industrial, and social development, he recalled its beginnings as the Marwari Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Birla commended the institution's glorious 125-year journey, saying it has been marked by resilience, foresight, and dedicated service to the nation.

Speaking about the country's democratic strengths, Mr. Birla said that visionary leadership, combined with stability and inclusiveness, makes India a model democracy for the world. He said that democracy in India is not just a system of governance, but a way of life deeply embedded in the country's social and cultural ethos. He added that the country's strong democratic institutions ensure policy continuity and enhance investor confidence—both of which are essential for sustaining long-term economic growth.

He said that where democracy flourishes, strong and stable governance also flourishes. This enables sound policy decisions and effective implementation. Speaking about the country's emergence as a global hub for innovation and research, Mr. Birla said that strong public-private collaboration in technology and research is propelling the country towards leadership in cutting-edge industries.

Regarding the role of women and youth in inclusive development, Mr. Birla said that their increasing participation in various sectors reflects a profound social transformation. He said that women's participation has increased significantly in various sectors and they will continue to play a vital role in building a developed and self-reliant India. He also highlighted the contribution of youth and entrepreneurs in fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, and shaping the nation's future with energy and vision.

Reaffirming the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Mr. Birla called for close collaboration between industry, government, and academia to build a resilient and self-reliant economy. He stated that India is poised to become a global hub for clean and green energy and expressed confidence that the country will lead the world in addressing environmental and climate challenges in the coming years.

Recognizing West Bengal's historical and continued contribution to the nation's progress, Mr. Birla said that the state has long been a center of intellectual, cultural, and industrial excellence. He said that Bengal has given birth to eminent thinkers, poets, reformers, and industrial pioneers and has been at the center of the freedom movement. He added that the state's enduring spirit of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship continues to inspire the nation.