RSS Chief Advocates for Larger Hindu Families in Lucknow Address
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a significant address at a social-harmony gathering held at the Saraswati Shishu Mandir in Lucknow on Tuesday. During his speech, Bhagwat made a direct appeal to Hindu families, urging them to consider having a minimum of three children to address what he described as a concerning decline in the Hindu population.
Population Concerns and Family Planning Recommendations
Bhagwat based his recommendation on scientific opinions, stating that societies with an average fertility rate falling below three children per family face the risk of eventual disappearance. He emphasized that newly married couples should be educated about this demographic reality, clarifying that the fundamental purpose of marriage extends beyond personal fulfillment to the continuation of creation and societal sustainability.
"There is a need to unite and empower Hindus. There is no threat to us but vigilance is necessary," Bhagwat asserted during his address, highlighting the importance of demographic strength alongside social cohesion.
Addressing Infiltration and Social Divisions
The RSS leader also expressed strong concerns regarding infiltration, advocating for a strict approach where infiltrators should be "detected, deleted and deported" without being provided employment opportunities. He stressed that maintaining social harmony requires addressing such challenges proactively.
Bhagwat further addressed internal social issues, calling for the elimination of caste-based conflicts and discrimination. He emphasized the importance of uplifting disadvantaged communities with a genuine sense of belonging, stating that all citizens share one country and one motherland, which should foster unity rather than division.
Sanatan Philosophy and Global Leadership
Describing Sanatan thought as a "philosophy of harmony," Bhagwat noted that differences that have emerged over time must be resolved through mutual understanding and practical application. He also commented on the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, affirming that laws must be obeyed while acknowledging that constitutional mechanisms exist to amend flawed legislation.
Looking toward India's global role, Bhagwat expressed confidence that the country would guide the world in the near future. He suggested that solutions to many international problems are embedded within India's rich civilizational ethos, which promotes harmony and sustainable living.
Call for Community Engagement and Vigilance
Bhagwat advocated for regular community-level meetings to promote social harmony, dispel misconceptions, and address pressing social issues while extending support to weaker sections of society. He also issued a caution regarding external influences, noting that certain elements in the United States and China are actively working against India's social harmony. He called for increased vigilance and the cultivation of mutual trust among citizens to counteract these external pressures.
The RSS chief's comprehensive address covered demographic strategies, social unity, legal adherence, and India's potential global leadership, reinforcing the organization's focus on cultural preservation and national strength through both family planning and social cohesion initiatives.