India Must Build Collective Strength to Lead the World, Says RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Nagpur, June 2026 : RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday asserted that India has entered a decisive phase in its global journey and is increasingly being looked upon by the world for leadership and direction. However, he stressed that the country must strengthen itself socially, culturally, and economically to effectively shoulder that responsibility.

Delivering the keynote address at the valedictory function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s annual Karyakarta Vikas Varg-Dwitiya training camp in Nagpur, Bhagwat said the time had arrived for India to play a larger role on the world stage. The event was attended by prominent personalities, including industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla, who was the chief guest.

Bhagwat remarked that merely waiting for favourable circumstances would not be enough. According to him, India’s emergence as a global force requires a prepared and united society capable of meeting future challenges and opportunities.

He observed that Hindu society is witnessing a growing sense of awareness and confidence about its identity and responsibilities. This awakening, he said, is increasingly reflected in social and national life, producing positive outcomes across different sectors.

Referring to the current international environment, the RSS chief noted that many countries are facing economic instability, financial distress, and geopolitical tensions. He cited ongoing global conflicts and tensions, including those involving major powers and West Asian nations, as factors that continue to influence economies worldwide, including India’s, through rising energy and fuel costs.

Bhagwat argued that India must draw strength from its own civilisational values, cultural traditions, and unique worldview rather than relying solely on external models of development. He maintained that historical colonial powers were not inherently superior and that India’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage remains a strong foundation for future progress.

Speaking about global power structures, Bhagwat said that international systems often respond more to strength than to moral arguments alone. He remarked that even when India presents a principled position, it may not always receive adequate attention unless it is backed by sufficient national capability and influence.

“Strength is essential if a nation wants its voice to be heard and respected internationally,” he said, emphasizing the need for India to enhance its collective capacities in every sphere.

At the same time, Bhagwat underlined that India’s rise should not be viewed through the lens of domination or expansionism. He described India as a nation deeply rooted in the concept of Dharma, whose purpose is not to conquer others but to contribute to global harmony, ethical conduct, and balanced living.

The RSS chief also reflected on the organisation’s philosophy, stating that its activities are not driven by a desire for recognition or institutional prominence. He said the Sangh’s objective is national resurgence and social transformation.

“The work is for the nation, not for fame. If the goal of national development is achieved without the organisation receiving credit, that would be perfectly acceptable,” Bhagwat said.

He concluded by urging society to remain united, disciplined, and committed to nation-building, saying that India’s growing global role must be supported by collective strength and a clear sense of purpose