Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi. The summit, hosted by the Parliament of India, is part of India’s G20 Presidency and carries the theme of ‘Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future’.
Key Points:
- Festive Atmosphere: The Prime Minister highlighted the festive atmosphere during G20 events organized throughout India, including the successful G20 Leaders’ Summit and the P20 Summit.
- Strength of the Nation: Modi emphasized the strength of any nation lying in its people and their willpower. He referred to the P20 Summit as a ‘Maha Kumbh’ of parliamentary practices from across the globe.
- Historical Context: Modi traced the historical roots of parliamentary traditions in India, referring to ancient scriptures, the Rigveda, and the Anubhav Mantappa tradition. He highlighted India’s commitment to democratic values and parliamentary practices.
- Modernization of Election Process: The Prime Minister discussed the modernization of the election process in India, citing the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for transparency and efficiency. He invited the delegates to witness the upcoming general elections in India.
- Women’s Participation: Modi informed the delegates about the recent decision to reserve 33 percent of seats in Parliament and state assemblies for women. He highlighted the significant participation of women in local self-government institutions.
- Diversity and Vibrancy: Modi emphasized India’s diversity and vibrancy, with multiple languages, cultures, and traditions. He underscored the unity in diversity as India’s greatest strength.
- Global Cooperation: The Prime Minister stressed the interconnected nature of the world and the importance of global cooperation. He called for moving together in the spirit of “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
- Fight Against Terrorism: Modi addressed the issue of cross-border terrorism faced by India, recalling the terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament about 20 years ago. He urged global representatives to unite against terrorism.
- Public Participation: Modi emphasized that public participation is the best medium to deal with global challenges. He stated that governments are formed by a majority, but countries are run by consensus.
- Pan-Africa Participation: The Prime Minister expressed happiness over Pan Africa’s participation in the P20 Summit, following the inclusion of the African Union in the G20.
- Theme and Sessions: The theme of the 9th P20 Summit is ‘Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ Thematic sessions focus on digital platforms, women-led development, accelerating SDGs, and sustainable energy transition.
- Pre-Summit Parliamentary Forum: A pre-summit Parliamentary Forum on LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was held to discuss initiatives towards a greener and sustainable future.
The P20 Summit brings together Speakers of Parliaments from G20 members and invitee countries to deliberate on key global issues and promote parliamentary cooperation.
