India’s rapidly evolving economy, backed by transparent governance, democratic vibrancy, and infrastructural expansion, has positioned the country as one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs across the world. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said India’s inclusive growth model, supported by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, has transformed it into a global investment hub. Speaking at the ‘India@100: An Age of A New Dawn’ event held in Kolkata, Birla highlighted that India has all the essential factors for doing business efficiently and is increasingly drawing global investors due to its conducive environment and strong democratic foundation.
India’s Growth Driven by Democracy and Transparent Governance
Addressing the 125th anniversary celebrations of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce, Om Birla emphasized that India’s growth story is deeply rooted in its democracy, diversity, and transparent governance system. He stated that entrepreneurs from around the globe now see India as a land of opportunity and innovation. Underlining the reforms brought by the Modi government, Birla noted that India’s democratic strength and the people’s active participation have been key drivers in maintaining political and economic stability.
Birla praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and policies, which he said have created an investor-friendly environment by minimizing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing ease of doing business. The government’s “minimum government, maximum governance” approach has significantly reduced red tape and enabled smoother industrial operations. This has, in turn, attracted substantial global interest, with investors confident in India’s transparent and predictable policy framework.
According to Birla, India’s rapid industrialization, backed by expanding infrastructure—such as roads, railways, and air connectivity—has accelerated the country’s overall economic development. He highlighted that India’s steady progress is evident in sectors ranging from manufacturing to services and technology. The continuous enhancement of physical and digital infrastructure, combined with a young and skilled workforce, is contributing to India’s position as a leading global economic power.
He also emphasized the importance of India’s democratic institutions, which have remained strong and intact since independence. “We celebrated the 75th anniversary of our freedom in a nation renowned for its diversity. Our democracy continues to be resilient, and it will remain so in the years to come,” Birla remarked. He said that India’s inclusive policies have ensured that progress reaches every segment of society, strengthening the country’s unity in diversity.
Birla added that the pace of social and economic transformation is remarkable and that more profound changes are expected as India approaches its 100th year of independence. He mentioned that the government’s focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and research has allowed India to become a global center for start-ups and technological advancement. From renewable energy to space research, Indian innovators are increasingly making a mark on the world stage.
West Bengal’s Contribution and India’s Cultural Foundation
During his speech, Birla paid special tribute to the state of West Bengal, recognizing its historic and cultural contributions to India’s progress. He praised Bengal’s role in shaping India’s intellectual and industrial evolution, describing it as a region that has always been at the forefront of reform, creativity, and nationalism. “People from Bengal have contributed immensely to the freedom movement and to building the modern Indian identity. The state’s culture, literature, and art have enriched our national fabric,” he said.
The Speaker highlighted Kolkata’s historic role as an industrial and cultural hub during the pre-Independence era, calling it the cradle of many revolutionary and economic movements. He reflected on the journey of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce, which was established in 1900, describing it as one of the oldest and most respected trade institutions in Eastern India. Birla lauded the Chamber for fostering a spirit of enterprise and supporting business growth through decades of transformation.
He also mentioned that West Bengal continues to play an integral role in India’s economic and cultural ecosystem. The state’s strong industrial heritage, combined with its growing sectors in manufacturing, services, and education, continues to attract new investments. Birla said that Bengal’s intellectual and creative capital will remain vital as India moves towards its centenary of independence.
Birla further observed that the government’s infrastructure development initiatives have been pivotal in accelerating growth across the country. He pointed out that modern transportation networks, digital connectivity, and logistics improvements are enabling businesses to expand faster and reach new markets. The Speaker also emphasized that India’s policies now prioritize sustainability, ensuring that economic development aligns with environmental responsibility.
He remarked that India’s growing global stature is not only a result of its economic achievements but also of its commitment to democratic values, social inclusiveness, and human development. Birla said that the country’s governance model is being recognized globally as a successful balance between growth and accountability. With transparent systems and institutional integrity, India is setting a new benchmark for governance-led progress.
Reflecting on the evolving global order, Birla said that India’s rise as a trusted economic partner is also redefining international trade relations. He stated that countries around the world now view India not merely as a market but as a collaborator in technological innovation, sustainable development, and supply chain resilience. This transformation, he noted, is a testament to India’s long-term policy stability and its emphasis on self-reliance through initiatives like ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’
Om Birla concluded his address by urging business leaders and entrepreneurs to continue working in alignment with the nation’s growth vision. He said that India’s economic momentum depends not just on policy frameworks but also on the proactive participation of its citizens and business communities. He encouraged the younger generation of entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, ethics, and sustainability as the pillars of their enterprises, ensuring that India’s progress remains both inclusive and enduring.
The event, attended by prominent industrialists and members of the Bharat Chamber of Commerce, marked a significant milestone in India’s economic journey. The Speaker’s remarks encapsulated India’s transition from a developing nation to an emerging global powerhouse — one that thrives on its democratic spirit, entrepreneurial drive, and unshakeable commitment to progress.
