Redefining Youth Leadership: Speaker U.T. Khader Advocates for Tech-Driven Governance at CPA Goa Conference

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Mangaluru : Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader delivered a thought-provoking address at the first conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Zone-VII held in Panaji, Goa. Speaking on the role of young legislators in building a developed India by 2047, Khader redefined the concept of “youth” in politics. He argued that youthfulness should not be measured merely by age but by a mindset characterized by innovation, courage, and a willingness to embrace new ideas. He noted that while approximately 15-20% of Indian legislators are under the age of 45, the real impact comes from those—regardless of age—who think with responsibility and a forward-looking perspective.

A significant portion of his speech focused on the necessity of continuous learning and professional training for lawmakers. Drawing inspiration from the successful “Bootcamp” for legislators held at Kshemavana in Bengaluru, Khader urged other states to adopt similar systematic training programs. He emphasized that in an increasingly complex world, legislators must be trained in cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data governance, and economic policy. He remarked that AI should no longer be viewed simply as technology but as a vital component of public infrastructure, capable of revolutionizing predictive policing, healthcare, and urban management.

The Speaker also advocated for a shift from “reactive” to “predictive” governance, where data-driven decisions and real-time analysis replace guesswork in budget allocations and policy-making. He stressed the importance of strengthening the Rupee through long-term visions, promoting domestic production, and fostering a “startup mindset” within the administration. The conference, which saw participation from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, served as a platform for Khader to call upon legislators to lead with a clear vision, ensuring that by 2047, India becomes a global trendsetter rather than a follower.