Speaker Gupta advises students on power, welfare
Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta addressed the students of the Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership (IIDL) on Monday. The Speaker told the students that power is a sacred public trust and must be used for the welfare of the last citizen.
Addressing Cohort IX students during their visit to the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Gupta said democracy draws strength not only from laws but from the ethical grounding of those who serve. He urged the students to see themselves as future architects of the nation and to act with responsibility and humility.
The visit was organised as part of IIDL’s structured field study programme in the national Capital.
The Speaker welcomed the initiative and praised institutions that train youth in democratic leadership. He said that classroom learning must be complemented by exposure to real legislative institutions to gain a deeper understanding of governance and public policy.
In his keynote address, Gupta spoke about the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’. He said becoming a developed nation is not just an economic goal but a commitment to inclusive and transparent governance.
He stressed that India needs leaders who can take informed decisions in the national interest and uphold constitutional values. “A prosperous nation is built on responsible legislators, efficient administrators, and an aware citizenry,” he said.
Sharing insights into his role, Gupta explained the daily functioning of the Assembly. He said debate, deliberation, and scrutiny form the foundation of a healthy democracy.
He added that discipline and mutual respect inside the House are essential to maintain its dignity and effectiveness.
The Speaker called upon young aspirants to put the nation above self and duty above convenience. He said technological and economic growth must be guided by human sensitivity and ethical leadership.
Progress, he added, should not leave any section of society behind.
Highlighting reforms in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Gupta said the House has transitioned into a fully paperless and solar-powered “green legislature” through the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). He described it as a step towards modern and transparent governance.
He also announced that the Assembly building will be transformed into a Heritage Site and opened to the public to preserve the spirit of democracy. In addition, Gupta spoke about his proposal for a National Legislative Index (NLI) to evaluate the performance of legislators. He said the idea is gaining national momentum and aims to promote accountability and measurable outcomes.
The session concluded with an interactive dialogue between the Speaker and the students. Participants raised questions on governance, legislative reforms, and ethical leadership. Representatives of Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini (RMP) and IIDL thanked the Speaker for his guidance. They said such interactions bridge the gap between academic theory and the practical realities of nation-building. By opening the Assembly to young learners, the event provided first-hand exposure to democratic functioning and reinforced the message that leadership is rooted in service and integrity.
