Arun Kumar, Sah Sarkaryawah of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasized India's cultural values and nation-building at ABP Network's Ideas of India 2025. Speaking in the session, he highlighted the need for societal transformation through individual growth. Elaborating on RSS's role, he stated, "BJP's success is a result of years of perseverance. It has no direct link to RSS, but our outreach has certainly increased." He described India as an ancient, eternal, and Hindu nation, adding that understanding it requires viewing it from RSS's perspective.
When asked about RSS's reputation as a rigid organization, Kumar refuted any notions of antagonism. "We have no adversaries," he asserted. Reflecting on the organization's century-long journey, he noted that while society has embraced RSS, its core values remain unchanged. "In 100 years, three things have remained constant in RSS- discipline, decentralization, and cultural purity. Everything else has evolved with time."
He also acknowledged that the post-independence years were a period of struggle for RSS, but in the last 75 years, the organization has been able to focus on national development. "The Sangh is still young. A new generation is stepping forward, and society continues to accept our ideology."
Speaking in a session titled 'Understanding RSS, he further stated that RSS does not believe in excessive publicity. "We work for the people but do not emphasize self-promotion. More work and less propaganda - that has always been our approach."
Addressing the issue of language conflicts, he expressed disappointment that people fight over languages, stating, "All languages are beautiful and an integral part of our identity. Every language is a national language."
Speaking about minority being subjugated in the country, he pointed out, "In 1947, Hindus made up 32% of Bangladesh's population, today, that number has declined to 7-8%. In contrast, India still has 14-15% Hindus, so comparisons should only be made with the right perspective."
ABP Network's Ideas of India 2025, centred around the theme 'Humanity's Next Frontier', will bring together thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by India's rise in a rapidly changing world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements such as AI, the summit delved into India's role as both an ancient civilisation and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit gathers a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions for a better, more sustainable world for all.
