Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla says democracy grows stronger only when every voice is heard. He was speaking at the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Goa Legislative Assembly complex at Porvorim.

 

Mr Birla said Goa has a proud history. A long struggle had brought freedom to the state. Since then, he said, Goa had worked to protect its heritage and natural environment while keeping pace with the country’s economic growth. He said the state has struck that balance, and has built a distinct identity in tourism, industry and education, without losing the dignity and quality of life of its people.

 

The Lok Sabha Speaker said agreement and disagreement were both integral to democracy. Since Independence, he said, India’s democracy had grown stronger because its institutions brought together different opinions, ideas and perspectives. 

 

Mr Birla concluded by calling for a roadmap for the next 25 years, with maximum participation of the public, young people and women.