Staff Reporter / Kolkata
Lok Sabha Speaker Mr. Om Birla today said that the world is increasingly looking to India as a promising investment destination, drawn by its robust democracy and dynamic economic growth. Citing India’s impressive strides in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, he remarked that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the nation is steadily progressing towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.
Speaking at the 125th Anniversary Celebrations of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, held under the theme “INDIA@100: An Age of a New Dawn,” Mr. Birla highlighted the government’s focus on “minimum government, maximum governance,” aimed at creating a business-friendly environment, cutting red tape, and fostering industrial expansion.
He urged the private sector to invest more in research, development, and innovation, and welcomed the Prime Minister’s assurance that the government will actively support such initiatives. This, he said, will further strengthen India’s position as a global hub for innovation and sustainable
Describing the Bharat Chamber of Commerce as an institution of excellence and inspiration for business chambers across the country, Mr. Birla praised its 125-year legacy of resilience, foresight, and contribution to India’s economic and social progress. He noted its evolution from the Marwari Chamber of Commerce to a nationally respected organization embodying corporate responsibility and public service.
Mr. Birla emphasized that India’s democracy is not merely a governance system but a way of life, deeply rooted in the nation’s social and cultural ethos. He asserted that visionary leadership, coupled with democratic stability and inclusiveness, has made India a model democracy for the world. The strength of India’s democratic institutions, he said, ensures policy continuity, investor confidence, and long-term economic growth.
Highlighting India’s growing role as a center for innovation and R&D, Mr. Birla credited strong public–private partnerships for driving advancements in emerging technologies and positioning India at the forefront of global innovation.
He also stressed the crucial role of women and youth in building a developed and self-reliant nation, noting their increasing participation across all sectors. Women, he said, are pivotal to India’s progress, while the energy, creativity, and vision of the youth are shaping the nation’s future.
Reaffirming the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Mr. Birla called for greater collaboration among industry, government, and academia to build a resilient, self-sustaining economy. He expressed confidence that India is poised to become a global hub for clean and green energy, and will lead international efforts to tackle climate change.
Acknowledging West Bengal’s historic contribution to India’s social, intellectual, and industrial development, Mr. Birla lauded the state’s legacy as a cradle of reform, innovation, and enterprise. He noted that Bengal’s enduring spirit continues to inspire India’s journey toward progress and global leadership.