Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday said the principles of Maharaja Agrasen – equality, inclusiveness, cooperation and collective participation – remain highly relevant in the modern era, asserting that India’s progress depends on collective participation and self-reliance.
Addressing the National Convention and Investiture Ceremony of the newly elected office-bearers of the Akhil Bharatiya Agarwal Sammelan, Speaker Birla said Maharaja Agrasen had established a model of governance based on social harmony and shared responsibility thousands of years ago, and those ideals continue to inspire society today.
The Lok Sabha Speaker said the Agarwal community has historically contributed significantly to the country’s development by following the vision of self-reliance and inclusive growth. He noted that whenever the nation or society faced crises, members of the community consistently stepped forward to support people in need.
“India’s progress depends on collective participation and self-reliance,” Speaker Birla said, adding that the tradition of dedicating wealth and resources to public welfare has remained deeply rooted in the Agarwal community’s values.
Highlighting the community’s role in India’s freedom struggle and post-independence nation-building, Speaker Birla said the Agarwal community has made major contributions in industry, trade, commerce, education, healthcare and social welfare. He said institutions such as schools, colleges, hospitals and dharamshalas established by the community across the country stand as enduring symbols of its commitment to selfless service.
Speaker Birla also urged the younger generation to preserve cultural values and continue working for the upliftment of underprivileged and weaker sections of society. He said the respect enjoyed by the community today is the result of generations of sacrifice, dedication and commitment to the nation.
Emphasising the need for dynamic leadership and collective action, the Speaker said different organisational units may adopt varied approaches, but they should remain united in their larger mission of serving society and contributing to national development.
Expressing confidence in the newly appointed office-bearers, Speaker Birla said he hoped they would continue to promote the ideals of Maharaja Agrasen through the Agarwal Sammelan and work actively for the welfare of the poor and marginalised.
He added that whenever the country faces disasters or crises, the Agarwal community should remain among the first to provide assistance and support to those affected. Speaker Birla said leadership is not merely a position of authority but a responsibility towards society and the nation.
