Is Youth Empowerment Key to National Development, Asserts LS Speaker Om Birla?

Bhubaneswar, Aug 30 (NationPress) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized the necessity for equal opportunities for the nation’s youth, highlighting their crucial contribution to national development when provided with the right opportunities.

During the closing event of a two-day National Conference of SC/ST Welfare Committees held here, the Speaker pointed out the growing significance of parliamentary and legislative committees in safeguarding democratic discussions.

He noted that both the central and state governments have set aside funds for the welfare of these communities, and that parliamentary committees play an essential role in ensuring these funds are used appropriately for their designated beneficiaries.

"The function of parliamentary committees is becoming increasingly important as they transcend party divisions," Birla remarked, adding, "We are troubled by the lack of quality dialogue and behavior within state assemblies and Parliament."

He also suggested that state assemblies establish legislative panels to supervise SC and ST welfare initiatives, ensuring that benefits reach the intended communities.

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh described the conference as a "living symbol of constructive federalism," noting that attendees set aside political differences to address SC and ST welfare issues. He mentioned that this was the inaugural conference of its kind outside Delhi.

Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhapati stated that these communities are integral to India’s social framework and serve as protectors of its culture and heritage. He emphasized that both parliamentary and state legislative committees have a fundamental role in overseeing the implementation of schemes, holding governments accountable, and ensuring that benefits reach those in need.

Union Minister Jual Oram pointed out initiatives like the PM Janman and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which he stated would aid over five crore tribal citizens.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan confirmed that the New Education Policy is enhancing accessibility for SC and ST students.

Faggan Singh Kulaste, chairperson of Parliament's Committee on Welfare of SCs and STs, along with Odisha government ministers, were also in attendance.

The conference, focused on the Role of Parliamentary and Legislative Committees, discussed reinforcing constitutional protections and striving towards a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The event underscored the necessity to bolster constitutional safeguards for these communities. Delegates also evaluated the efficacy of existing policies and the requirement to formulate new strategies to tackle modern challenges.

The conference highlighted the essential role of parliamentary and legislative committees in scrutinizing budget allocations and assessing the performance of welfare programs to ensure they achieve their objectives and genuinely uplift the most vulnerable segments of society.