Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla chaired a workshop on ‘Leveraging Technology: Enhancing Democracy through Digital Transformations and Tackling the Digital Divide’ at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference in Barbados on October 9, 2025. He urged parliamentarians from Commonwealth nations to advocate responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while bridging the digital divide with technology.
AI-Powered Digital Parliament Making Processes Efficient and Inclusive
Shri Birla highlighted how AI-based digital systems have transformed India’s parliamentary democracy, making it more efficient, transparent, and inclusive. He cited examples such as AI-based multi-language translation, AI-enabled e-Library, and speech-to-text reporting systems that streamline legislative functions and promote greater citizen engagement.
Upcoming AI Initiatives and Democracy
He announced that India soon will debut real-time AI translation tools like “Sansad Bhashini,” enabling every Member of Parliament to communicate in their own language — a milestone in democratic inclusivity for India’s linguistic diversity. Shri Birla underscored that democracy thrives when citizens are deeply connected and engaged with their Parliament, with technology playing a vital role in strengthening this bond.
Digital Sansad and India’s Digital Milestones
Under the “Digital Sansad” initiative, India has developed an integrated digital ecosystem connecting Members of Parliament, ministries, and citizens on a unified digital platform. He praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership in creating world-class digital infrastructure, including a low-cost, open Digital Public Infrastructure benefiting 1.4 billion citizens, reshaping governance and the economy.
AI Mission and Digital Inclusion
Elaborating on India’s “AI Mission” — “AI for All and AI for Good” — Shri Birla emphasized the Prime Minister’s forward-thinking approach, viewing AI as a powerful tool for citizen empowerment and transparent governance. He also noted rapid growth in India’s digital ecosystem, including deployment of 5G (making India the world’s second-largest 5G market) and ongoing 6G research. India’s digital payments revolution via UPI has massively expanded financial inclusion, complemented by free AI training provided to 1 million citizens to foster grassroots innovation.
Conclusion: Ethical AI
Shri Birla’s insightful address at the CPA Conference reflected India’s leadership in harnessing technology to enhance democracy, promote digital equity, and spur inclusive growth. His call for cooperative, ethical AI governance resonates as nations navigate the transformative power of digital innovation.
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Source: PIB
