Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday underlined the need for self-reliance as the United States’ tariff hikes weigh on Indian goods, stressing that economic dependence must not evolve into a compulsion for the nation.Speaking at the RSS’s annual Vijayadashami celebrations in Nagpur, Bhagwat said, “The new tariff policy implemented by the US was done keeping in mind their own interests. But everyone is affected by them. The world functions with dependence on each other; no country can survive in isolation. This dependence must not turn into compulsion… We need to rely on swadeshi and focus on self-reliance, while striving to maintain diplomatic relations with all our friendly nations, which will be with our wish and without compulsion.”
#WATCH | During the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh, Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat says, "The new tariff policy implemented by the US was done keeping in mind the interest of their own. But everyone is affected by them... The world functions with… pic.twitter.com/rqwnTwQB2h
— ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2025
Bhagwat slammed cross-border terrorism, recalling attacks where Indians were targeted for their faith. He said 26 Indians had been killed after being asked their religion, sparking national grief and anger. “With complete preparations, our government and armed forces gave a befitting reply. The government’s dedication, the armed forces’ valour, and the unity in society presented an ideal atmosphere in the country,” he added.He further noted that global and domestic reactions to such incidents reveal India’s true allies while also exposing internal destabilising elements. “The role played by various nations after this incident and our operation revealed our true friends. Within the country, there are unconstitutional elements who try to destabilise the country,” Bhagwat said.Drawing attention to the environment, the RSS chief warned against unchecked development in ecologically sensitive regions, particularly the Himalayas. “Natural calamities have increased. Landslides and incessant rainfall have become normal… The Himalayas are our security wall and source of water for South Asia. The present situation of the Himalayas is ringing a warning bell,” he cautioned.
Marking the Sangh’s centenary year, Bhagwat paid tribute to leaders and historical sacrifices. “This year marks the 350th anniversary of the sacrifice of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. We honour those who sacrificed their lives and protected society from oppression. It’s also Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti today. His contribution to India’s independence was great,” he said.On regional politics, Bhagwat cautioned against violent protests, citing examples from neighbouring nations. “When governments stay away from people and are unaware of their problems, dissatisfaction arises. But violent protests benefit no one; they only provide a platform for external powers to play their games. Revolutions in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh only brought instability. BR Ambedkar called such a movement the ‘Grammar of Anarchy’,” he noted.
Emphasising India’s growing global influence, Bhagwat said, “The world is looking towards India for solutions to global concerns. The universe wants India to lead by example and show the world a way.”The Vijayadashami Utsav at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur featured the traditional Shastra Puja (worship of weapons), with both traditional arms and replicas of modern weaponry, including the Pinaka MK-1 system, advanced rocket launchers, and drones on display.This year’s celebrations were significant as the RSS marked its centenary. The event was attended by dignitaries including former President Ram Nath Kovind, Union minister Nitin Gadkari, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
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