Panaji, April 10 -- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday stressed the need to significantly increase women's representation in legislative bodies, stating that India is entering a new era that demands greater participation of women in policymaking and lawmaking.

Addressing the valedictory session of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region Zone VII Conference in Goa, Birla said that "women are excelling across sectors, including business, education and science, and their role in legislatures must grow accordingly."

He emphasised that from panchayats to state assemblies and Parliament, women's representation should be strengthened to ensure a greater role in shaping laws.

Highlighting the evolution of India's democr...