Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressed the inaugural ceremony of the silver jubilee celebrations marking 25 years of the Goa Legislative Assembly Building, which was inaugurated by Goa Governor Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju. 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.
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 from the civilizational ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'. He stressed that democracy's strength must be reflected in how people's expectations are translated into policies, laws, and effective governance, particularly noting the special responsibility of elected representatives in smaller states like Goa where close citizen-representative interaction exists.
The Speaker called for greater technology adoption to enhance public understanding of legislative processes, enabling citizens to access information about rules, laws, policies, debates, and committee work. He advocated for healthy competition among state legislatures in adopting innovations and sharing best practices in technology, legislative procedures, and institutional reforms. Birla also emphasized the importance of youth participation in democratic institutions, noting that India's youth are at the forefront of technology, education, research, and innovation, and their involvement would lead to better policies and laws.
Birla acknowledged Goa's distinctive identity encompassing natural beauty, coastline, rich cultural heritage, and harmonious way of life. He congratulated present and former Chief Ministers, Speakers, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Assembly Members who contributed to Goa's socio-economic development over 25 years. He noted that Goa successfully balanced promoting industry, trade, tourism, and education while preserving its heritage and natural environment, establishing a distinct position in tourism, industry, and education while maintaining quality of life.
The Speaker urged that the silver jubilee should not just celebrate past achievements but also envision the next 25 years. He called on the Goa Legislative Assembly to prepare a forward-looking roadmap aligned with the Viksit Bharat vision, with maximum participation from citizens, youth, and women. Birla emphasized that the next 25 years should focus on making democratic institutions stronger, more accessible, accountable, responsive, and results-oriented, with greater public participation making these institutions more accountable to citizens.
On the occasion, Birla released 'Customised My Stamp and Special Cover with Special Cancellation' of the Goa Legislative Assembly and Secretariat Building and felicitated eminent personalities. The event was also addressed by Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Minister for Legislative Affairs Shri Mauvin Godinho, and Leader of Opposition Shri Yuri Alemao. Speaker Gaonkar delivered the welcome address, while Deputy Speaker Shri Joshua Peter De Souza delivered the words of gratitude.