RSS Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat during his annual Vijayadashami speech on the 91st Foundation Day of RSS at Reshimbagh ground in Nagpur. (Photo by: Kartik Thakur)

When RSS Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat took to the stage today to deliver his annual Vijayadashami speech on the 91^st Foundation Day of RSS at Reshimbagh ground in Nagpur, he had the usual attention of thousands of RSS swayamsevaks. This apart, the lakhs of followers and critics of RSS alike were glued to the speech, which was telecast and webcast across the country. Bhagwat, in somewhat political speech of his, focused upon controversy surrounding Gau-rakshaks, Modi government and India’s reply to the terrorists.

Nation Next brings you the highlights of the speech:

One: Mohan Bhagwat informed that the centenary celebrations of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay will continue this year as well. He then stressed upon the need of following the teachings of revered personalities – Acharya Abhinavgupta, Saint Ramanujacharya, Prajnachakshu Shree Gulabrao Maharaj and the tenth guru of the Sikhs ? Guru Gobind Singh.

Two: Mohan Bhagwat applauded the Modi government for its work and said that the government has given hope to the people in the country. He added that the policies of the government has dispelled the disappointment previously prevalent in the country.

Three: Mohan Bhagwat said that Sangh Swayamsevaks have stepped up their efforts to counter social inequality. They are helping people from schedule castes and schedule tribes categories to claim the benefits guaranteed to them under the constitution, he stated. He urged the individuals and associations who stand for social good to become more active.

Four: Mohan Bhagwat in his speech backed the Gau-rakshaks saying that It’s necessary to distinguish between people who protect cows and the trouble makers, adding, that sometimes things are blown out of proportion. He said that the protection of cows is mentioned in the Directive principles of the Indian Constitution and Gau-rakshaks carrying forward the work of protecting the cows act within the framework of the constitution and the law, and will continue to do so.

Five: Against the backdrop of the Uri attacks and surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army in PoK, Mohan Bhagwat said, the whole world knows that the disturbances in the Kashmir valley are promoted by people across the border. He congratulated the Government of India and the armed forces for giving a befitting reply to those who promote terrorism. He also said that there is a need for the defence forces to be prepared all the time, as not being prepared can cost us heavily.

Six: Mohan Bhagwat stressed upon the need of educational facilities to be available cheaply and easily. He added that the government and society should participate and should stand together against the commercialisation of education.

Seven: Mohan Bhagwat while promoting a healthy dialogue between the older and younger generation in families, said that if children develop proper behavior at home, they will work hard towards their studies. He also said that elders should set an example for the young. Stressing on the importance of a dialogue, he informed that Kutumbprabodhan? is an activity which Swayamsevaks are involved in. Under this activity, they have initiated the change from their own homes by engaging their families in a dialogue.