Tell India’s Stories with Integrity and Insight, Speaker Om Birla Urges Young IIS Officers

Addresses Indian Information Service officer trainees on the role of credible communication in a digital democracy

New Delhi, July 31: Emphasizing the power of authentic storytelling in a rapidly evolving nation, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday called upon officer trainees of the Indian Information Service (IIS) to become responsible narrators of India’s journey of resilience, innovation, inclusion, and development.

Addressing the 2023–24 IIS batches at the Parliament premises, Birla said, “In an age where information travels at lightning speed and perceptions shape discourse and policy, it is essential that India’s stories are told with authenticity and integrity.”

Highlighting the crucial role of IIS officers in the world’s largest democracy, he said they must act not only as voices of the government but also as interpreters of policy, facilitators of public understanding, and defenders of transparency. “You are the bridge between the state and its citizens. For that, you must understand India—its diversity, its democratic ethos,” he said.

Birla noted the challenges posed by digital media and 24×7 news cycles, where misinformation and fake narratives spread rapidly. He underscored that timely, fact-based communication rooted in a clear understanding of governance is vital in such an environment.

Referring to India’s democratic foundation, the Speaker urged the young officers to develop a robust understanding of parliamentary processes, including how bills become laws, the significance of Parliamentary Committees, Zero Hour, and Special Mentions, which reflect public concern and political accountability. He stressed that parliamentary debates influence public opinion, and it is the communicator’s role to translate complex legislative dialogue into relatable public messages.

Birla also encouraged the officers to align their work with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 — a developed, inclusive, and globally respected India. He called on them to make this goal their daily motivation and guiding compass.

Touching on the transformative role of technology, the Speaker urged the officer trainees to embrace tools such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and e-governance platforms to enhance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement. He stressed the importance of continuous upskilling to remain relevant in an increasingly digital governance landscape.

The IIS officer trainees are currently on a three-day attachment with Parliament of India, during which they also witnessed Lok Sabha proceedings. The session was attended by Dr Pragya Paliwal, Vice Chancellor of IIMC, Dr Nimish Rustagi, Registrar of IIMS, Rashmi Roja Tushara, IIS Course Director, and senior officials from the Lok Sabha Secretariat.