PM lauds RSS, pushes for 'swadeshi, seeks UNESCO recognition of Chhath Puja

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 126th Mann Ki Baat broadcast on Sunday, lauded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its century-long contribution to nation-building, announced the government's push to secure UNESCO recognition for Chhath Mahaparva, and urged citizens to embrace swadeshi products during the festive season.

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Speaking just days before the RSS celebrates its 100th anniversary on Vijayadashmi, Modi described the organisation as an embodiment of discipline, sacrifice, and service.

A former pracharak himself, he recalled its founding by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in 1925 with the objective of freeing the country from "intellectual slavery". He said the Sangh's journey over the last hundred years had been "remarkable, unprecedented and inspiring. Paying tribute to Hedgewar's successor, MS Golwalkar, he quoted his words, "This is not mine; this belongs to the nation," and said this philosophy had guided millions of volunteers towards selfless service. "This statement by Guruji Golwalkar has shown millions of volunteers the path of sacrifice and service. This spirit of sacrifice, service, and the discipline it teaches is the true strength of the Sangh. Today, the RSS has been relentlessly and tirelessly engaged in national service for over a hundred years," he said. Modi added that swayamsevaks were often the first to arrive with help whenever natural disasters struck, with "nation first" remaining the core of their work.