Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh Addresses Plenary Session of 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi

Rajya Sabha Secretariat

प्रविष्टि तिथि: 27 OCT 2026 5:34PM by PIB Delhi

The Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri Harivansh today delivered an address at the Plenary session of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum held in New Delhi, on the theme ‘Sustainability: The Centrality of Parliament in Fostering a Sustainable and Inclusive Future for Our Nations’.

Highlighting the context of the conference, Shri Harivansh noted that India’s BRICS Chairship in 2026 is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” He emphasized that the New Delhi Declaration, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in September 2026, reaffirmed a shared commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Reflecting on global developmental challenges, Shri Harivansh pointed out that humanity faces formidable hurdles, including climate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, resource scarcity, food and energy insecurity, and growing inequalities. Quoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report 2026, he noted that only 15 per cent of the 139 targets with sufficient trend data are currently on track for achievement by 2030. He stressed that sustainability is not merely an environmental concern, but is fundamentally about human dignity, economic opportunity, social justice, and a better future for all.

Underlining the pivotal role of legislatures, the Deputy Chairman stated that Parliaments have a unique and indispensable role in addressing these challenges. Through legislation, budgetary oversight, accountability mechanisms, and citizen representation, Parliaments provide democratic legitimacy to public policy and bridge the gap between global commitments and local action. He added that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires Parliaments to enact enabling legislation, allocate adequate resources, monitor implementation, and ensure that the voices of all sections of society are heard.

Elaborating on India’s approach, Shri Harivansh affirmed that sustainable development must be people-centric, inclusive, and equitable. India’s developmental philosophy is rooted in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the world is one family. Guided by this principle and the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, India remains committed to building a prosperous, resilient, and sustainable nation while contributing to global development efforts.

Highlighting the importance of youth engagement, he noted that in India, where nearly two-thirds of the population is under 35 years of age, young people are indispensable partners in sustainable development. Initiatives such as the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament provide platforms for young citizens to engage with democratic institutions, develop leadership, and contribute innovative ideas towards an inclusive and sustainable future.

Addressing international cooperation, Shri Harivansh asserted that global challenges demand a global response. Sustainability requires stronger international cooperation, greater access to finance, technology sharing, and respect for the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities. He stressed that developing countries must have adequate policy space and resources to advance sustainable development according to their national circumstances and priorities.

Concluding his address, Shri Harivansh emphasized that sustainability is ultimately a question of governance, accountability, and collective responsibility. Through parliamentary diplomacy, exchange of best practices, and collective advocacy, Parliaments can act as powerful instruments for building a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous world for present and future generations.

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