In a historic moment of diplomatic and technological collaboration, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla emphasized the importance of leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to enhance the functioning of parliamentary systems during his recent visit to Scotland and the United Kingdom. His discussions with Scottish leaders, including the First Minister Rt. Hon. John Swinney and Presiding Officer Rt. Hon. Alison Johnstone showcased India’s commitment to fostering AI-driven innovation and strengthening democratic values globally.

AI in Parliamentary Productivity: Lessons from India

Shri Birla highlighted how India's Parliament has embraced AI and digital technologies to increase legislative productivity, enhance decision-making, and promote transparency. India has streamlined legislative tracking, citizen engagement, and data analytics through AI-enabled platforms to ensure more effective governance. The Speaker’s assertion that Indian and Scottish Parliaments can learn from each other’s experiences reinforces the global potential of AI in democratizing parliamentary systems.

India’s AI journey is deeply intertwined with its broader vision of becoming the third-largest economy in the world. By harnessing AI for governance, the country is setting benchmarks for inclusive, participatory democracy.

Education as a Catalyst for AI Collaboration

India’s New Education Policy (NEP) has emerged as a transformative framework, offering immense opportunities for global academic partnerships. Shri Birla invited Scottish universities to leverage NEP's open avenues to establish their presence in India. This collaboration holds the potential to spur AI and digital innovation in education, with cross-border research initiatives focusing on AI-powered teaching methodologies, digital learning platforms, and skill development in emerging technologies.

The NEP's emphasis on multidisciplinary education and industry-academia linkages aligns seamlessly with Scotland's expertise in academic innovation, paving the way for a vibrant exchange of ideas and technologies.

Women's Empowerment through AI-Enabled Democracy

In his discussions, Shri Birla underscored India’s commitment to gender equality and women empowerment, highlighting landmark initiatives such as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. By integrating AI-driven tools, India has created platforms to monitor and evaluate gender-focused legislation, ensuring accountability and measurable impact. The Speaker’s call for an exchange of best practices between Indian and Scottish Parliaments reflects the shared goal of promoting women-led development and inclusivity.

AI's Role in Tackling Global Challenges

In London, Shri Birla engaged with the Indian Diaspora and key leaders, including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Discussions centred on AI, social media, and the growing challenge of fake news, emphasizing the need for robust regulatory frameworks. AI-powered analytics and content moderation systems are increasingly vital for ensuring the integrity of information and safeguarding democratic processes in both nations.

The Speaker also highlighted the crucial role of the Indian Diaspora in driving innovation, investment, and collaboration in emerging fields like AI and green technology. India’s "transform through reform" initiative invites the Diaspora to contribute actively to the country’s technological and economic transformation.

Building a Global AI-Driven Parliamentary Ecosystem

As India and Scotland strengthen ties, the shared commitment to AI-enabled governance, education, and women empowerment reflects their dedication to building a resilient and inclusive future. Integrating AI in parliamentary systems enhances operational efficiency and the ability to address the complex challenges of the modern world.

Through initiatives like the New Education Policy and strategic international partnerships, India is positioning itself as a global leader in AI-driven innovation. The Lok Sabha Speaker’s visit reaffirms India’s vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family), leveraging AI and digital technologies to promote cooperation, inclusivity, and sustainable development across borders.

This collaboration represents a powerful step toward creating a self-reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat) while contributing to the global discourse on democracy, technology, and human empowerment.

Source: PIB