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RSS chief Bhagwat says youth can turn demographic dividend, need guidance
The RSS chief called for a distinctly Indian approach to development, arguing that India should not blindly compare itself to other countries
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday emphasised that India’s youth are a “demographic dividend” that, if nurtured properly, will bring immense benefits to the nation. He warned that they could become a burden on society if not engaged and utilised effectively.
This marks his second engagement with Gen Z within ten days, following a recent event in Mumbai.
Speaking on the 80th Independence Day programme, Bhagwat urged the Gen Z to adopt a long-term perspective. “Today’s youth will be old in 30 years,” he said, adding that people need to think of future generations.
Bhagwat acknowledged that debate, dialogue, opposition, and protests are integral parts of democracy but insisted that people must always remain mindful of their responsibilities.
He stressed that national development depends on maintaining a balance between diversity and unity, alongside a shared commitment to strengthening India. While differing ideas are natural in a democracy, where individuals present arguments and respond to others, they should not erode underlying unity, he said.
The RSS chief called for a distinctly Indian approach to development, arguing that India should not blindly compare itself to or imitate the paths of countries like the US, China, Canada, or Australia.
“We need a completely separate thought process for our issues,” he said, adding that the materialistic focus of the West does not fully reflect India’s values.
Bhagwat redefined employment, asserting that it is not solely about landing a job. He declared that “labour should be given dignity” and that “the hands that do the work” are just as vital to the nation’s earning power.
He also urged young people to embrace entrepreneurship and face difficulties with courage.
Bhagwat said the nation has an obligation to “show the world the future path through its vision and help it find balance.” He added, “The world, due to its imperfect vision, is stumbling,” and called on India to prepare itself to act as a guide.
Hoisting a large tricolour during the event, he urged citizens to reflect on what the national flag represents and the effort required to elevate Bharat’s standing.
Bhagwat called for strengthening India to make it a happy, secure, and prosperous “Vishwaguru” (world teacher), capable of providing direction to the
world.
He reminded citizens that while celebrating the sacrifices of freedom
fighters, the ongoing responsibility to preserve that freedom requires determination and the capacity to confront emerging challenges.
