FICCI LADIES ORGANISATION (FLO) “FUTURE FRONTIERS CONCLAVE”

Disruptions and noise in parliament a sign of vibrant democracy -Kiren Rijiju , Union Minister of Parliament and Minority affairsGovernment working on women led development as empowering of women leads to empowering of society- Minister

Youth should Embrace curiosity and excitement dreaming big for India’s future space missions and country’s progress- Shubhanshu Shukla , Group Captain, IAF and Astronaut

New Delhi September 19, 2025 Disruptions and noise in parliament during various sessions is a healthy sign of vibrant democracy as debates and discussions are part of parliamentary democracy.

“If there is no noise and disruptions in parliament where else it would be as vibrant democracy has to have heated debates for the benefit of the nation. We want debate and discussions but physical obstructions create hindrance in passing of important bills and it affects the productivity of the parliament. The government is forced to pass several essential bills without discussion “ said Mr Kiren Rijiju, Union minister for parliamentary and minority affairs while speaking at ‘Future frontiers conclave’ organised by FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) apex body of business women in the country.

“Recently concluded Monsoon Session of Parliament was extremely fruitful for the country and the government. Protesting or disagreeing is a democratic way to express your views, but obstructing and stopping the government from working in Parliament is undemocratic. During the monsoon session, the productivity of the Lok Sabha was 31 per cent and in Rajya Sabha it was 39 per cent. During the session 14 bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha. 12 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 15 Bills by Rajya Sabha. A Total of 15 bills were passed by the Parliament.” Mr Rijiju said.

“The Narendra Modi government has always been working for women led development as empowering the society as a whole. Contribution of women in the country’s development is crucial as they constitute half of our population .” he added.“Indian youth and women should be curious and embrace the “golden time” for space exploration and national development. During my space mission I learnt the importance of collective effort and dreaming big for India’s future space missions. The spirit of inclusivity and opportunity and importance of never giving up and embracing the spirit of exploration and innovation, assuring young minds that they too can become astronauts and contribute to India’s bright future in space” said Shubhanshu Shukla, Indian Airforce Group Captain and astronaut while speaking on the occasion

“FICCIFLO’s work spans the entire spectrum of empowerment , at the roots – skilling women in rural India, fostering livelihoods, and ensuring financial literacy so that no woman is left behind. In enterprise – mentoring entrepreneurs, opening market access, and driving digital transformation for small businesses and start-ups. At the policy table – advocating for gender parity, corporate leadership, and inclusive national growth.” Said Ms Poonam Sharma, president, FICCI FLO while speaking at the conclave .

“Nationally, we champion initiatives such as FLO Start-Up, FLO MSME, FLO Handloom & Handicraft, FLO Digital Initiative, FLO Financial Literacy, FLO Women Directors, FLO Rural Enterprises and the FLO Industry–Academia Initiative. For today’s conclave, two flagship efforts take centre stage: the FLO Sustainability Initiative and the FLO Women in A special emphasis will also be placed on encouraging women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) recognizing their essential role in pioneering climate-tech solutions, advancing research, and shaping the next generation of sustainable innovations.” Ms Sharma said.

Other highlights of the conclave were addressed by BK Shivani, Spiritual leader, Panel discussion by eminent speakers including Dr Kiran Bedi, Shombi Sharp, Dipa Singh Bagai, Sunil Sethi and Salona Chandna .Later nation builder FICCI FLO awards were presented to Dr Meenakshi Gupta, Co-found, GOONj , Dr Saumitra Rawat, of Ganga Ram Hospital , Mr Digraj Singh Rajput, CEO, Next Toppers, Dr Rukmani Krishna murthy a scientist.

Those present on the occasion included Ms Puja Garg, Senior Vice President, FICCI FLO and Ms Smriti Puri , national treasurer, FICCI FLO and past presidents.