RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Advocates for Swadeshi and Self-Reliance in Annual Vijaya Dashami Address

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered his annual Vijaya Dashami address today

Nagpur:

Dependence on imports should not become a compulsion, and there is no alternative to 'Swadeshi' or indigenous production, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized today, addressing the critical issue of the US' tariff offensive against India.

"The new tariff policy implemented by the US was executed with their interests in mind. However, everyone is affected by these policies... The world operates with interdependence... No nation can thrive in isolation. This interdependence must not transform into compulsion... We need to embrace swadeshi and focus on self-reliance, while maintaining diplomatic relationships with friendly nations, which should be by our choice rather than necessity," he stated.

Bhagwat was presenting his Vijaya Dashami address at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur. The ideological foundation of the ruling BJP is commemorating its centenary.

The RSS chief also discussed the recent turbulence in Nepal, where a nationwide movement resulted in regime change. "Instability in neighboring countries is concerning," he remarked, referring to the Gen-Z protest in the Himalayan nation. "The regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and most recently Nepal due to violent expressions of public discontent are worrisome for us. Forces seeking to create similar disturbances in Bharat are active both within and outside our borders," he noted.

"Democratic processes bring meaningful change; violent uprisings do not. They cause disruption, but fundamental conditions remain unchanged. Historical evidence confirms this. No revolution has fully achieved its intended purpose. France revolted against monarchy, only for Napoleon to become emperor. Many so-called socialist movements occurred, yet these socialist countries have now adopted capitalism. Chaos creates opportunities for foreign powers to advance their agendas," he explained.

The RSS chief emphasized that diversity is India's tradition and we must accept our differences. "Some differences may create discord. Differences must be expressed within legal boundaries. Provoking communities is unacceptable. While administration must act impartially, youth must remain vigilant and intervene when necessary. The pattern of anarchy needs to be stopped," he stated, adding that an 'us' versus 'them' mentality is "not acceptable".

Referring to the Pahalgam attack, he mentioned that the killing of 26 innocent people after identifying their religion triggered nationwide outrage. "The Indian government formulated and executed a strong response in May. Beyond the country's resolute leadership and the forces' courage, we also witnessed society's strength and unity during this challenging period," he concluded.