RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat calls for self-reliance, warns of internal divides in centenary Vijayadashami address

On the occasion of Vijayadashami, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a widely anticipated address at the Sangh’s headquarters in Nagpur, marking the centenary year of the RSS.

His speech touched on themes of economic sovereignty, national security, social equity, environmental threats, and the dangers of discord within India.

Bhagwat warned about challenges posed by global tariff regimes, especially US policies, and argued that India should avoid becoming overly dependent on foreign markets or systems.

He called for a renewed focus on self-reliance (swavalamban), saying dependence should not be allowed to become compulsion.

Referring to the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, in which 26 Hindu pilgrims were killed, Bhagwat used the incident to underline the need to remain vigilant about external threats and asserted that the episode revealed which nations truly support India.

On internal security, he claimed the Naxal movement has been largely contained, though he cautioned that development, justice, and equity must sustain efforts to prevent its resurgence.

Bhagwat also addressed concerns about economic inequality, calling out structures that enable exploitation and concentration of wealth.

He argued that material development must not come at the cost of social harmony, and urged that values, relationships, and empathy remain central.

Another striking portion of his speech was about environmental degradation, particularly in the Himalayan region. He pointed to irregular rainfall, melting glaciers, landslides, and forest stress, urging that the Himalayas be regarded both as a security barrier and vital water source for the subcontinent.

Turning to regional politics, Bhagwat criticized violent regime changes in neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh, warning that instability next door can affect India. He emphasized that change should come through democratic means, not street agitation or external pressure.

He also made appeals for unity within Indian society, rejecting divisions based on caste, creed, or community. He cautioned that internal conflict weakens national resilience and urged that ideological fragmentation be addressed.

Bhagwat’s ceremony began with the traditional Shastra Puja, where arms and symbolic weapon replicas—including modern systems—were displayed.

His address preceded the Sangh’s Path Sanchalan (march) and other centenary events. Former President Ram Nath Kovind was the chief guest, and dignitaries from political and cultural circles joined the program.

As the RSS completes a century, its leadership is signaling a forward path that balances cultural nationalism with calls for socio-economic justice, ecological responsibility, and national security. Whether the rhetoric translates into grassroots shifts in policy or politics will be watched closely.