New Delhi, June 16 (HS): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday emphasised the importance of greater public participation in democracy, saying that the vision of a developed India by 2047 can be realised through the energy, innovation, leadership and sense of responsibility of the country's youth.

Addressing participants of the national-level 'Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026' at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in the Parliament complex, Birla said India has emerged as the world's largest democracy with increasing public participation despite its vast population, cultural diversity and geographical variations.

He said democracy has remained an integral part of India's work culture and collective thinking, and active, inclusive participation in democratic processes is essential for shaping the country's future and achieving the goal of a developed India.

Earlier, the Lok Sabha Speaker inaugurated the national-level 'Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026' programme.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya was also present on the occasion.

The 'Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament' is organised annually by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to provide young people across the country a platform to engage with democratic processes, policy discussions and parliamentary practices, strengthening their role in the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar