In 1980, the RSS emerged as a powerful political force, leveraging the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement to elevate Hindu nationalism and solidify its influence in shaping India’s socio-political landscape. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement catapulted the BJP and the RSS to national prominence by constructing the Lord Ram temple. It tapped into the religious sentiments of millions and became a rallying point for Hindu nationalism.
India’s Global Leadership
The election of long-time swayamsevak and former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, as Prime Minister in 2014 marked a turning point in Indian politics and the RSS’s influence on national affairs. Modi’s leadership emphasised economic growth, national security, and cultural revival, with initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat positioning India as a global force. His foreign policy strengthened ties with major powers like the U.S., Russia, and Japan, while enhancing India’s role in world organisations. The RSS has shaped Modi’s policies, especially in education, culture, and social welfare, with its affiliates involved in various development initiatives.
Nation-building
One of the most remarkable aspects of the RSS’s journey has been its consistent focus on social welfare and nation-building through a wide range of social initiatives at the grassroots level to improve the lives of ordinary Indians. Seva Bharati, an RSS affiliate, operates in underdeveloped regions, offering healthcare, education, and disaster relief.
Promotion of Education
The RSS’ Vidya Bharati network of schools promotes education in rural and semi-urban areas and emphasises Indian cultural values and national pride among students.
Through its various affiliate organisations, such as the Sanskriti Bharati and the Akhil Bharatiya Itihas Sankalan Yojana, the RSS has worked to revive interest in India’s ancient history, languages, and traditions.
Vision for India
The RSS sees India as a global leader that can offer a unique development model based on cultural values, economic self-reliance, and social harmony. It believes India’s rise as a global leader must be rooted in its civilisational values the principles of Dharma, truth, and justice that have guided Indian society for millennia. This vision of global leadership is not about dominance or hegemony but about offering a model of development that promotes sustainability, inclusivity, and human well-being.
Economic development
A key pillar of the RSS’s vision for India’s future is economic self-reliance, achieved by reducing dependence on foreign goods and fostering domestic industries and innovations This vision aligns with the Atmanirhar Bharat initiative launched by the Modi government, which seeks to make India self-sufficient in key sectors such as manufacturing, defence, and technology. The RSS believes that economic development must go hand in hand with social justice. The organisation is involved in initiatives aimed at empowering marginalised communities and promoting inclusive growth.
Cultural Leadership
In addition to its economic aspirations, the RSS believes that India’s rich cultural heritage, rooted in the principles of Sanatana Dharma, has much to offer the world through values, philosophy, and way of life. It has been at the forefront of efforts to promote Indian culture and values globally. Through its affiliate organisations, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, the RSS has worked to connect the Indian diaspora with their cultural roots and promote a positive image of India abroad.
Humanitarianism
At the core of the RSS’s vision is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family, which envisions India as a peaceful, responsible global citizen contributing to world stability and welfare. The organisation has led relief efforts during COVID-19 and promoted peace both domestically and internationally.
The Future of the RSS
The challenge for the RSS will be to adapt to a rapidly evolving world while staying true to its core values. As India rises globally, the RSS’s role in shaping its destiny remains crucial in India, as well as global leadership and human welfare. The next phase of the RSS’s journey will bring new challenges and opportunities, but its commitment to service, discipline, and national pride will guide its path toward a strong and prosperous India—one that stands tall as a global leader and development model.
(The author is an official of Vishwa Samvad Kendra, Mumbai. Views personal)
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