Bridgetown, Oct 9: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired a workshop on “Leveraging Technology: Enhancing Democracy through Transformations and Tackling the Digital Divide” during the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados. The session focused on how digital innovation can strengthen democratic institutions and promote inclusive governance.
Birla underlined India’s pivotal role within the Commonwealth, noting that the country represents nearly 60 per cent of the organisation’s population and continues to uphold democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. “India is proud to contribute to initiatives like the Commonwealth Youth Programme and Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation,” he posted on X on Thursday.
Highlighting India’s global leadership in climate action, Birla said, “We have met our carbon intensity reduction targets ahead of schedule and are advancing initiatives such as the Green Hydrogen Mission and the establishment of large solar parks.” He also stressed India’s achievements in digital transformation, women and youth empowerment, and participatory governance—key drivers of transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable growth.
Earlier, Birla attended the opening ceremony of the conference, which is being held under the theme “The Commonwealth – A Global Partner.” The event brings together Speakers and parliamentary leaders from across the world to strengthen cooperation, dialogue, and shared democratic values.
An Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Birla arrived in Bridgetown on Tuesday to participate in the conference, which runs until October 12. The delegation includes Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh, MPs Anurag Sharma, D. Purandeswari, K. Sudhakar, Rekha Sharma, and Ajeet Madhavrao Gopchade, along with Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh and Rajya Sabha Secretary General P.C. Mody.
During his stay, Birla is also expected to meet Barbados’ leadership and engage with members of the Indian diaspora.
