Empowering Equality: Om Birla Champions India’s Social Justice Framework at 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Tashkent – Punekar News

New Delhi/Tashkent, April 6, 2025: Today, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla spoke at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He emphasized the inclusive spirit of the Indian Constitution, stating it aims to treat all citizens equally and lift marginalized communities into the mainstream.

In his address, Birla highlighted how the Indian Parliament has passed key laws to promote social justice. He cited important legislation like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act (2019), which protect vulnerable groups. He also mentioned recent labor laws designed to support workers in informal sectors, underlining Parliament’s ongoing commitment to social upliftment.

Birla pointed out that the Indian Parliament is focused on justice and the rule of law. A notable change is the replacement of the Indian Penal Code with the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which seeks to enhance the justice system. He praised Parliamentary Committees as essential tools for monitoring welfare programs, noting that they ensure effective implementation of various schemes aimed at benefiting society.

He also discussed the importance of health initiatives, mentioning the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). This initiative provides free health insurance to the poorest 40% of the population in India, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving health access.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has seen remarkable economic growth, with a GDP increase of over 105% in the last decade. Birla highlighted that India is now the fifth-largest economy and is on track to become the third-largest, paving the way for advancements in innovation, technology, and other fields.

Birla hopes the discussions at the IPU Assembly will inspire parliaments worldwide to adopt practices that build more inclusive and thriving societies.

He also spoke about the expanding role of the IPU in fostering global cooperation among parliaments. The current theme resonates with the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which emphasizes unity and collective progress.

On the sidelines of the Assembly, Birla met Tran Thanh Man, the President of Vietnam’s National Assembly. They reflected on the strong ties shared between India and Vietnam, celebrating the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship. Birla noted that both nations aim for sustainable development, with plans set for 2047 for India and 2045 for Vietnam.

Cooperation in defense, technology, and education is helping to strengthen their partnership. Birla highlighted India’s “Digital Parliament” initiative, which improves parliamentary processes through technology, fostering greater citizen involvement. Many Vietnamese students are taking advantage of educational scholarships in India, which further cements the relationship between the two countries.

The Vietnamese President also extended Ram Navami greetings and stressed the importance of enhancing defense and technology ties. He invited Birla to visit Vietnam, marking a step towards tighter friendship and cooperation.

With global challenges ahead, the commitment shown by both nations promises a fruitful collaboration focused on welfare and mutual growth.



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