India Committed to National Security, Defence Self-Reliance: LS Speaker Om Birla

GG News Bureau
Jamshedpur,26th May: Reinforcing India’s unflinching resolve towards national security and defence self-reliance, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday issued a stern warning to forces spreading terror in India. Speaking at the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jamshedpur, Birla declared that “any country or terrorist organisation spreading terror in India will face consequences graver than Operation Sindoor.”

Hailing the courage and dedication of India’s armed forces, the Lok Sabha Speaker said the nation takes immense pride in their bravery and unwavering resolve. “A sense of collective interest must guide us on matters of national security,” he asserted, adding that India had decisively fortified its internal security apparatus and sent a clear message to the world.

During his maiden visit to Jharkhand as Speaker, Birla paid tributes to tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda, describing him as a symbol of tribal dignity and self-respect. “This land gave us both Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who led a valiant struggle for tribal rights, and Jamshedji Tata, who laid the foundation for India’s industrial awakening,” he said, while visiting Birsa Chowk and the Birsa Munda Museum in Ranchi.

Birla underlined that India, once dependent on foreign defence imports, is now emerging as a global force in indigenous defence manufacturing. “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has adopted a clear and ambitious goal of Atmanirbharta in defence production,” he said. The transformation has opened new avenues for MSMEs and industries, enhancing their role in national security.

Touching upon the broader vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, the Speaker said that collective effort, technological advancement, healthy competition, and skill development will be key to transforming India into a developed nation. “India’s greatest strength is its young, skilled population. Our youth are emerging as global leaders, heading multinational corporations and shaping the future,” he observed.

Birla also spoke about India’s shifting educational paradigm under the New Education Policy, stating that institutions like IITs and AIIMS are evolving into global hubs of research and innovation. He called for greater collaboration between academia and industry, and urged stakeholders to seize opportunities in green energy, defence tech, advanced manufacturing, and IT.

Encouraging the Singhbhum Chamber to become a platform for democratic dialogue, Birla urged it to take the lead in planning India’s industrial roadmap. He praised its seven-decade legacy and contributions to regional and national development.

The event was also attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, former Chief Minister Arjun Munda, MP Bidyut Baran Mahato, and other dignitaries. Birla was accorded a traditional welcome at Ranchi airport by Jharkhand Assembly Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahto and MoS Defence Sanjay Seth.