Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the Silver Jubilee celebrations marking 25 years of the Goa Legislative Assembly Building on October 6, 2026, with Goa Governor Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju presiding over the ceremony. The event featured addresses by multiple dignitaries including Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Minister for Legislative Affairs Shri Mauvin Godinho, and Leader of Opposition Shri Yuri Alemao.
In his address, Shri Birla emphasized that strong democracies are built on dialogue, diverse views, and meaningful public participation, noting that legislatures serve as forums for discussion, debate, and exchange of diverse views. He stated that democracy strengthens when there is space for both agreement and disagreement, and when diverse perspectives are incorporated into the legislative process. India's democratic strength, according to Birla, stems from its institutions' ability to accommodate diverse opinions and viewpoints.
Birla highlighted India's growing global stature, attributing it to the country's democratic experience and commitment to constitutional values. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India is contributing to solving global challenges while drawing upon the civilizational ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. He stressed that democracy's strength must be reflected in how people's expectations and aspirations are translated into policies, laws, and effective governance.
The Lok Sabha Speaker called for greater transparency and accessibility through technology adoption, suggesting that technology can enhance public understanding of legislative processes by enabling citizens to access information about rules, laws, policies, legislative debates, and committee work. He advocated for healthy competition among State Legislatures in adopting innovations, encouraging them to learn from one another and share best practices in technology, legislative procedures, and institutional reforms.
Birla emphasized the importance of youth participation in democratic institutions, noting that India's youth are at the forefront of technology, education, research, and innovation. Their participation in the legislative process would contribute to better policy formulation. He welcomed Goa Legislative Assembly's four-day program highlighting the history of the Goa Liberation Movement and the state's legislative journey, which he believes will help connect young people with legislative institutions.
The Speaker praised Goa's distinctive identity, noting its natural beauty, coastline, rich cultural heritage, and harmonious way of life. He acknowledged the contributions of present and former Chief Ministers, Speakers, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Members of the Goa Legislative Assembly to the state's socio-economic development over the past 25 years. Birla specifically noted that Goa has successfully balanced industry, trade, tourism, and education development with preservation of its rich heritage and natural environment, establishing a distinct position in tourism, industry, and education while maintaining quality of life.
Looking forward, Birla urged the Goa Legislative Assembly to prepare a 25-year roadmap aligned with the Viksit Bharat vision, with maximum participation of citizens, youth, and women. He emphasized that the next 25 years should focus on making democratic institutions stronger, more accessible, accountable, responsive, and results-oriented. Greater public participation in legislative functioning would make these institutions more accountable and responsible toward citizens.
During the ceremony, Shri Birla released 'Customised My Stamp and Special Cover with Special Cancellation' of the Goa Legislative Assembly and Secretariat Building and felicitated eminent personalities. Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar delivered the Welcome Address while Deputy Speaker Shri Joshua Peter De Souza delivered the Words of Gratitude.