Om Birla Highlights India’s Leadership in Democracy and Digital Transformation at Commonwealth Conference

Bridgetown, Oct 2025 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired a workshop on “Leveraging Technology: Enhancing Democracy through Transformations and Tackling the Digital Divide” during the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados.

Addressing the session, Birla emphasised that India, representing 60 per cent of the Commonwealth’s population, remains a steadfast advocate of democracy, inclusive growth, and human rights. He reiterated India’s active participation in key initiatives such as the Commonwealth Youth Programme and the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation, underscoring New Delhi’s commitment to collaborative progress.

“India is proud to contribute to initiatives like the Commonwealth Youth Programme and Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation,” Birla posted on X on Thursday.

Highlighting India’s leadership in climate action, Birla said the country has achieved its carbon intensity reduction targets ahead of schedule and is advancing major green initiatives, including the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the development of large-scale solar parks.

He also outlined India’s progress in digital transformation, women and youth empowerment, and citizen engagement, noting that technology-driven governance is fostering transparency, sustainability, and inclusive development across the nation.

Earlier, Birla attended the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, which brought together Speakers and leaders from across the world. Held under the theme “The Commonwealth – A Global Partner,” the event focused on strengthening dialogue, cooperation, and shared democratic values to build a more equitable and inclusive global order.

An Indian Parliamentary delegation, led by Birla, arrived in Bridgetown on Tuesday to participate in the conference, which runs until October 12. The delegation includes Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh, MPs Anurag Sharma, D. Purandeswari, K. Sudhakar, Rekha Sharma, and Ajeet Madhavrao Gopchade, along with Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh and Rajya Sabha Secretary General P.C. Mody.

During his visit, Birla is also scheduled to meet with the leadership of Barbados and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.