Nagpur: RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat has called for a nationwide movement against drug addiction, urging swayamsevaks to take the lead in strengthening efforts to combat substance abuse. Addressing the Vijayadashami celebrations at Reshimbagh ground in Nagpur, he called for all individuals and organisations working against drugs to come together for a coordinated campaign.
Describing drug addiction as a serious national challenge, Bhagwat said the government, administration and society must work together to address the problem within a definite timeframe. He stressed that families have a crucial role in helping children develop the wisdom to distinguish right from wrong. The younger generation must be encouraged to stay away from tendencies that lead to substance abuse, he said.
Bhagwat added that the responsibility of taking India towards Param Vaibhav, or its highest potential, rests significantly on the shoulders of the youth, who must be fully prepared to meet the challenges ahead.
Organised Hindu Society and National Unity
Bhagwat said efforts to build a strong and organised Hindu society were not opposed to respect for other religions or national unity. He described the Hindu social outlook as inclusive, arguing that an organised Hindu society could strengthen social cohesion and mutual goodwill.
He said values passed down through generations often inspire individuals to protect the lives of others during crises. In this context, he referred to Captain Smith Machar, highlighting his act of risking his own life to save others.
India’s Progress and the Challenges Ahead
Referring to attempts to undermine cultural and humanitarian values in different parts of the world, Bhagwat said India was advancing by drawing on its strength, policies, leadership, patriotism and sense of global responsibility.
He said India had established its position internationally through its own efforts in recent decades, and that the country’s growth was creating obstacles for those pursuing vested interests. Bhagwat alleged that some forces were attempting to weaken India, Hindu society and the RSS, with narrow political interests and the pursuit of power contributing to such efforts.
At the same time, he acknowledged that social problems and shortcomings in the system could exist, making protests a natural response. However, he said demonstrations should aim at solutions rather than create divisions or hostility. Protesters, administrators and political leaders must ensure that their actions remain within constitutional and legal boundaries, even when emotions run high.
He also stressed that the government alone could not resolve every social problem and that protests were not the only means of bringing about change. Society as a whole had a responsibility to contribute to solutions.
Balanced Development and Responsible Use of Technology
Referring to a major disaster in Nepal, Bhagwat highlighted the possible consequences of an unbalanced approach to development in the Himalayan region. He called for a comprehensive and balanced development strategy, alongside ethical and practical discipline in the application of science and technology.
He warned that knowledge of atomic structures could lead to clean energy as well as weapons capable of destroying lives. Similarly, artificial intelligence, despite its potential benefits, could be misused to spread misinformation and facilitate deception.
Vande Mataram and National Integrity
Bhagwat described Vande Mataram as a powerful symbol of national integrity, recalling its role in inspiring the struggle against the partition of Bengal. He said there should be no hesitation or opposition to singing the national song in its entirety with pride.
He said India should seek to open new pathways for global development based on national values. Individual actions, he added, must contribute to the country’s security, unity, social justice, progress and dignity. India’s rise to Param Vaibhav and its aspiration to become a Vishwaguru would depend on the dedication and hard work of its people.
Senior journalist Sanjay Gupta was the chief guest at the event. Vidarbha Prant Sanghchalak Deepak Tamshettivar, Sah-Sanghchalak Shridhar Gadge and Nagpur Mahanagar Sanghchalak Rajesh Loy were also present.
