Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasised the importance of constructive discussions in Parliament for addressing public issues and development, warning that deliberate disruptions are detrimental to democracy.
Speaking at a press conference following the conclusion of a two-day national workshop in Bhubaneswar, Birla stressed the need for elected representatives to uphold decorum and dignity in their conduct to strengthen democratic traditions.
The press conference followed a national workshop held at Bhubaneswar’s Lok Seva Bhawan, where discussions focused on the welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Birla announced the formulation of “Bhubaneswar Agenda 2025,” a comprehensive plan to promote inclusive development for SC/ST communities, involving collaboration between the Centre and states. The agenda aims to ensure economic progress, equality, and justice for marginalised groups, with parliamentary committees monitoring the implementation of welfare schemes and budget utilisation.
The two-day workshop, attended by over 120 delegates, including 14 parliamentary committee chairpersons, eight MPs, and over 100 state assembly representatives, saw 31 members present proposals. Birla highlighted the importance of Centre-state collaboration in advancing SC/ST welfare and urged states without dedicated SC/ST welfare committees to establish them promptly. He also praised Odisha’s spiritual, religious, and cultural significance as the host of this landmark event, the first such conference held outside Delhi in 25 years.
Birla underscored the role of education as a cornerstone of empowerment, noting that both the Centre and states have allocated separate funds to provide quality opportunities for SC/ST students. The workshop, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, emphasised evidence-based monitoring, field visits, and public reporting to ensure the effective implementation of welfare initiatives.
