Lok Sabha Speaker’s Address: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered the keynote address at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on April 6, 2025.
Theme: The address focused on ‘Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice’.
Indian Legislation: Birla highlighted recent Indian legislation promoting social justice, inclusion, and security, such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, and Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.
Labor Laws: Mentioned new labor laws and codes for the welfare of unorganized sector workers.
Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita: Replacing the Indian Penal Code with Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.
Parliamentary Committees: Highlighted the role of Parliamentary Committees in ensuring effective implementation of schemes.
Economic Growth: Emphasized India’s economic growth and progress towards ‘Viksit Bharat’ in 2047, including Ayushman Bharat.
India’s Global Role: Mentioned India’s progress in innovation, AI, startups, space and defence technology, IT, fintech, and pharmaceuticals.
Meeting with Vietnam: On the sidelines, Birla met with the President of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Tran Thanh Man, discussed strengthening ties, especially in defence and technology.
IPU Overview: The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments, founded in 1889. It comprises 181 member parliaments and promotes democracy and parliamentary strengthening.
IPU Assemblies: The IPU convenes assemblies twice a year. The Governing Council, with representatives from each member parliament, is its principal administrative body.
IPU Headquarters and Funding: Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and funded primarily by its members.
