The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrated its centenary at its headquarters in Nagpur. In his Vijaya Dashami address, RSS Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat responded forcefully to the ongoing U.S. tariff imposition on Indian goods. He used the platform to outline what he sees as India’s path forward amid global pressures, and underscored ideological themes of self-reliance, sovereignty, and caution against external coercion. His remarks have drawn attention for their alignment with economic nationalism and political messaging at a moment of trade tensions.
Here are seven key takeaways from his speech:
Swadeshi, Self-Reliance Over Compulsion
A recurring and central theme in Bhagwat’s speech was the assertion that “Swadeshi” (indigenous production) remains the only sustainable path forward for India in a world marked by shifting trade policies and tariff wars. He argued that while nations are bound by mutual dependence, that very dependence must not become a form of external compulsion. India must aim for self-reliance—not in isolation, but in a way that protects its autonomy in decision-making.
‘Us’ vs. ‘them’ mentality unacceptable: Embrace differences
Underlying all his ideological messaging was a strong emphasis on India’s identity, social fabric, and sovereignty. Bhagwat warned against dividing narratives of “us vs them,” pledging that India’s richness lies in plurality.
“Some differences may lead to discord. Differences must be expressed within the law. Provoking communities is unacceptable. The administration must act fairly, but the youth must also stay alert and intervene if needed. The grammar of anarchy needs to be stopped,” said Bhagwat in his speech.
He argued that political leadership must not allow any humiliation from external powers and must protect national dignity.
Bhagwat Sounds Alarm on Ecological Risk in Himalayas
Bhagwat also sounded the alarm on ecological risk, stating that India’s adoption of the global “consumerist development model” is straining the environment, especially in fragile zones like the Himalayas. He cited irregular rain, glacier melt, landslides, and unpredictable weather patterns as clear signals of ecological distress.
“The harmful consequences of the materialistic and consumerist development model adopted worldwide are increasingly becoming evident,” said Mohan Bhagwat. “In Bharat too, because of the same model, irregular and unpredictable rainfall, landslides, drying up of glaciers, and other similar effects have intensified over the last three-four years.”
Concerns over Widening Inequality in India
Mohan Bhagwat raised serious concerns about the widening inequality in India. He warned of a growing concentration of economic power, new mechanisms that favour exploitation by elites, and systemic flaws in the global economic model that India had been following. He urged a course correction to ensure that the poor and marginalized are not left behind.
Critique of U.S. Tariff Strategy
Bhagwat criticised the U.S. tariff measures, describing them as moves made in line with American self-interest and reflecting anxiety over India’s rising economic strength. He warned that such policies can negatively impact multiple sectors in India, including textiles, gems, jewellery, and furniture. The U.S. has slapped India with 25% tariffs and further penalised New Delhi with a penalty https://elmalpensado.com/ tariff for doing business with Russia.
Mohan Bhagwat used this critique to argue that India’s response should not be reactive but strategic, anchored in domestic resilience.
India’s Interdependence: Not Denial, but Boundaries
Bhagwat made clear that he does not advocate for isolationism. He acknowledged that India must engage in global interdependence, including trade, diplomacy, partnerships, but he insisted that such engagement should be voluntary, mutual, and without coercion. Dependence should not cross into https://www.shantradingco.com/ compulsion, he cautioned.
Warnings Against Violent Upheaval & External Interference
Beyond economics, Bhagwat turned to geopolitics and regional stability. He referenced recent regime changes and unrest in India’s neighbourhood, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, as signs of danger if protests shift into violent insurrections. He warned that violent uprisings often invite foreign meddling. He emphasised that expression of dissent must stay within legal channels, describing ‘the grammar of anarchy’ as harmful.Beyond domestic issues, Bhagwat flagged India’s global isolation in policy initiatives like Operation Sindoor and in securing international support following the Pahalgam terror attack. He called for stronger security capabilities and vigilance, suggesting that India must be wary of depending too heavily on global alignment or external validation.
(Photo: Courtesy: RSS)