Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla led an Indian Parliamentary Delegation at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, emphasizing multilateralism and innovation in his address titled “Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Advocacy for Multilateralism: Birla highlighted the importance of equitable sharing and responsible use of technological advancements, highlighting India's progress in leveraging technology for public service delivery, governance, transparency, and accountability.
  • Quote from Shri Om Birla: “India has always been a strong proponent of multilateralism... The fruits of technological advancements must be shared equitably and leveraged responsibly.”
  • Birla called for enhanced dialogue and cooperation among Parliaments, asserting that collaborative efforts in science, technology, and innovation are vital for global development.
  • He expressed hope that forums like the IPU would facilitate inclusive development through shared action plans.

FOCUS ON CLIMATE CHANGE & ENERGY SECURITY

  • Birla discussed India's renewable energy initiatives, including the concept of “ONE SUN, ONE WORLD, ONE GRID” (OSOWOG) proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that India’s renewable energy capacity had increased from 76 GW to 203 GW over the last decade.
  • Key initiatives mentioned include:
    • Green Hydrogen Mission
    • International Solar Alliance
    • Global Biofuel Alliance

LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS & REGULATORY CONCERNS

  • Birla highlighted that the Indian Parliament has engaged in extensive discussions on climate change and Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring the use of green technology in new parliamentary constructions.
  • He pointed out that India has implemented special incentives for innovation and entrepreneurship under the Start-up India program, positioning India as the third-largest start-up nation globally with 118 unicorns valued at over USD 355 billion.
Regulatory Concerns
  • Emphasizing the need for an appropriate regulatory framework for technology, Birla urged discussions on data privacy, responsible AI use, and equitable sharing of technological benefits in both the IPU forum and national parliaments.

ABOUT IPU

Inter Parliamentary Union explained for UPSC
  • Foundation: Established in 1889, the IPU is the first multilateral political organization aimed at promoting democracy and world peace.
  • Membership: Comprises 180 national parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies, fostering cooperation and dialogue among nations.
  • Objectives: Promotes democracy, strengthens parliamentary institutions, and defends the human rights of parliamentarians.

STRUCTURE OF IPU

  • IPU Assembly: The principal body for expressing the views of the IPU on political issues, bringing together parliamentarians to study international problems and make recommendations.
  • Governing Council: The policymaking body, comprising representatives from member parliaments, responsible for establishing the IPU's annual program and budget.
  • Executive Committee: Oversees administration and advises the Governing Council, consisting of 17 members, including the IPU President.
  • Standing Committees: Assist the Assembly in its work across various thematic areas.