Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday said that the world is increasingly looking to invest in India, attracted by its strong and vibrant democratic foundations and rapid economic progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing the 125th Anniversary Celebrations of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, held under the theme “INDIA@100: An Age of a New Dawn,” Birla said India’s robust democracy, policy stability, and investor-friendly reforms have positioned the country as a global hub for innovation and economic growth.
“The world is drawn to India not just for its market potential but for the strength and credibility of its democratic institutions. Where democracy thrives, good governance follows,” Birla remarked. He added that the Modi government’s policies of “minimum government, maximum governance” and the drive to reduce bureaucratic hurdles have created a conducive environment for business and industrial expansion.
Encouraging the private sector to boost investment in research and development, Birla said the government would continue to complement private innovation with public support, helping India achieve global leadership in technology and manufacturing.
He praised the Bharat Chamber of Commerce for its historic contributions to India’s industrial and social development since its inception as the Marwari Chamber of Commerce, describing it as a “source of inspiration” for other business chambers across the country.
Highlighting India’s transformation in the past decade, Birla said the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and inclusive growth have enabled it to thrive even amid global uncertainties. He underscored that India’s democracy is “not merely a system of governance but a way of life,” deeply rooted in the country’s cultural and social ethos.
The Speaker also emphasized the pivotal role of women and youth in India’s development journey, noting their growing participation in entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. “Women’s increasing engagement in diverse sectors and the creativity of our youth are shaping the future of a developed and self-reliant India,” he said.
Reaffirming the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Birla called for stronger collaboration between industry, government, and academia to build a resilient and sustainable economy. He expressed confidence that India is on course to become a global leader in clean and green energy, playing a key role in tackling climate and environmental challenges.
Acknowledging West Bengal’s historic contributions to India’s progress, Birla lauded the state’s legacy as a cradle of intellectual, cultural, and industrial excellence. He said Bengal’s enduring spirit of innovation and enterprise continues to inspire the nation’s journey toward a developed India.