RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday called for India to evolve into a strong and economically self-reliant nation, highlighting that the world respects power and strength. Speaking at the ‘Gyan Sabha’, a national education conference organized by Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas in New Delhi, Bhagwat urged India to move beyond the image of a “golden bird” and instead become a “lion” in the global arena.

India Must Project Strength

“The world understands power. Therefore, Bharat must become strong and economically rich,” Bhagwat asserted. He stressed that strength and prosperity are crucial for India to secure its rightful place on the global stage.

Preserving the Name ‘Bharat’

Emphasizing national identity, Bhagwat advocated for retaining the name ‘Bharat’ without translation. “Bharat is a proper noun. It should not be translated. ‘India is Bharat’ — that’s true. But Bharat is Bharat. In every context — personal or public — we should use Bharat,” he said.

He warned that losing one’s identity diminishes respect and protection on the global front: “If you lose your identity, the world will neither respect nor protect you, no matter your other merits.”

Education with Values

The RSS chief also focused on the purpose of education, stating that true education empowers individuals with independence while fostering a spirit of sacrifice and selflessness. “Education that teaches selfishness is not real education,” he said, adding that education extends beyond schools to homes and society.

He emphasized the importance of creating an environment conducive to raising confident and responsible youth, urging society to reflect on the atmosphere required for the next generation.

Event Highlights

The conference was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, senior academicians, and vice-chancellors from across India. Key attendees included Dr Pankaj Mittal (President, Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas), Dr Atul Kothari (Secretary), A Vinod (Coordinator), and Madhu Nair (Chairman, Cochin Shipyard).

The event focused on reshaping India’s educational framework in line with cultural values and preparing the youth to face future challenges with clarity and confidence.