Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the Silver Jubilee celebrations marking 25 years of the Goa Legislative Assembly Building on October 6, 2026. The event was also inaugurated by the Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju.
In his address, Shri Birla emphasized that strong democracies are built on dialogue, diverse views, and meaningful public participation, noting that legislatures are forums for discussion and debate. He stated that India's democratic strength stems from its institutions' ability to accommodate diverse opinions. He highlighted India's growing global stature under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, contributing to global challenges with the ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
Birla stressed that technology can significantly enhance public understanding of legislative processes by improving access to information on rules, laws, policies, and debates, thereby deepening the connection between legislatures and citizens. He called for a 'healthy competition' among State Legislatures in adopting innovations, sharing best practices in technology, legislative procedures, and institutional reforms.
He emphasized the importance of greater youth participation in democratic institutions, noting that India's youth are leaders in technology, education, and innovation, and their involvement would lead to better policies. He welcomed the Goa Legislative Assembly's four-day program highlighting the Goa Liberation Movement and the state's legislative journey, which aims to connect youth with democratic processes.
Birla acknowledged Goa's distinctive identity, balancing economic development in industry, trade, tourism, and education with the preservation of its natural environment and cultural heritage. He congratulated present and former Chief Ministers, Speakers, Ministers, MPs, and MLAs for their contributions to Goa's socio-economic development over the past 25 years.
He urged the Goa Legislative Assembly to use the Silver Jubilee as an opportunity to envision the next 25 years, preparing a forward-looking roadmap aligned with the Viksit Bharat vision. This roadmap should involve maximum participation from citizens, youth, and women, ensuring democratic institutions become stronger, more accessible, accountable, responsive, and results-oriented.
Other dignitaries present included Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Minister for Legislative Affairs Shri Mauvin Godinho, and Leader of Opposition Shri Yuri Alemao. Dr. Gaonkar delivered the welcome address, and Deputy Speaker Shri Joshua Peter De Souza delivered the vote of thanks. On this occasion, Shri Birla released a 'Customised My Stamp and Special Cover with Special Cancellation' of the Goa Legislative Assembly and Secretariat Building and felicitated eminent personalities.
This content may not be financially relevant.