Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday highlighted India’s commitment to a fair, inclusive, and rule-based global trading system, underscoring the aspirations of the Global South during his address at the 2nd Working Session of the BRICS Parliamentary Forum in Brasilia.
Speaking on the theme “BRICS Parliamentary Action in Search of New Paths for Economic Development”, Birla called for enhanced intra-BRICS cooperation in trade, investment, and finance and welcomed the expansion of the BRICS grouping as a positive step toward a more inclusive global order.
Birla noted that despite global challenges, BRICS countries have made remarkable economic progress, and India’s rise from the 10th to the 4th largest economy within a decade is “a testament to robust policy frameworks and the strength of our people.”
“India supports a fair and rule-based global trading system—one that adequately addresses the needs and aspirations of the Global South,” said Birla.
He hailed India’s transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting breakthroughs in infrastructure, digital technology, and governance. From water and energy projects to connectivity through roads, ports, railways, and logistics hubs, India’s growth model has become globally recognised.
Youth and Skills: India’s Demographic Dividend
Birla spotlighted India’s youthful energy, with over 65% of the population under 35, fueling sectors like manufacturing, green energy, digital technology, and healthcare.
“Through initiatives like Skill India, PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, and the New National Education Policy, India is skilling its youth. India is emerging as the Skill Capital of the World,” Birla said.
Global Contributions
India is increasingly seen as the Pharmacy of the World, leader in IT services, digital payments, and startup innovation. Platforms like UPI, e-NAM, and the JAM Trinity were cited as transformative models.
He also mentioned India’s recent tax reforms, including the Income-tax Bill 2025, to promote transparency and efficiency in the tax regime.
Representation of Developing Nations
Birla raised concern over the under-representation of developing countries in global institutions, urging BRICS nations to push for equitable participation of the Global South.
“The imbalance in international institutions hampers global equity. BRICS must act collectively to address this,” he said, while also expressing concern about the disproportionate impact of global crises like COVID-19 on developing nations.
On Terrorism and Operation Sindoor
Addressing the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed, Birla issued a strong message:
“Terrorism is the greatest threat to global peace. Pakistan has failed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure on its soil. India responded through Operation Sindoor with measured, proportionate, and responsible action to neutralise threats.”
He reaffirmed India’s zero tolerance policy on terrorism and called for global unity against terror networks.
Strengthening Ties with Brazil
On the sidelines, Birla met with Senate President Davi Alcolumbre and Chamber of Deputies President Hugo Motta of Brazil. Discussions highlighted strong bilateral cooperation in defence, space, energy, and culture, and future collaborations in AI, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and health technology.
“India and Brazil are natural partners. Our shared values and strategic cooperation can set benchmarks for the Global South,” Birla said.
The forum, which brings together lawmakers from the BRICS nations, is seen as a key platform for deepening parliamentary diplomacy and collaborative development models. The next session is scheduled for further deliberation on June 10.