New Delhi, Nov 16 (IANS) Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar is keen that young Indians connect with parliament, the 'beautiful institution' that has 'stood the test of time'.

'I want to make them (young Indians) realise what a beautiful institution they have in their country which has stood the test of time and which is theirs now to cherish, strengthen further,' Meira Kumar told IANS.

The first woman speaker of the Lok Sabha said she wants to bridge the gap between rural youths and parliament.

'Rural youth are so enthusiastic when it comes to elections. But after the elections, when it comes to the Lok Sabha and parliament is running, then there is a gap. This continuity should be there.

'Maybe parliament could run some colleges in rural areas. But, yes, this is something which is very nascent and needs to be developed,'she said.

She would also like to encourage young MPs to speak in the house.

'I have encouraged a number of young MPs to speak. I have also, in my foreign delegation, enlisted them. I have taken them abroad, made them take part in international forums,' she said.

'I am also for encouraging the silent ones who, sitting at the back, listen to everything. Maybe they are sometimes feeling inhibited. They need to be encouraged. They will speak up. I keep on saying, 'why don't you speak up?'' Meira Kumar said.