Nation-Building Through Patriotism: RSS Yuva Sammelan calls on youth to lead in bringing about change

Bhubaneswar: Bharat’s youth possess boundless potential, and if they dedicate themselves to the service of the nation with patriotism and selflessness, the country can once again reclaim its status as a Vishwaguru, stated Dr. Basant Pati, Sah-Sampark Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Odisha (Purv).

Dr. Pati addressed the valedictory session of a day-long RSS Yuva Sammelan organised by the Bhubaneswar Mahanagar unit of the Sangh at the Regional Institute of Education, Acharya Vihar, on Sunday. The event saw participation from over 500 young delegates across the city.

“Nation Building Lies in Awakening of Self-Identity”

Highlighting the pivotal role of youth in shaping India’s future, Dr. Pati remarked, “If the young generation works with the spirit of nation-building, free from selfish motives, Bharatwill emerge as a developed country by 2047.” He urged the youth to internalise patriotism and cultivate a sense of duty towards society, emphasising that the current national environment is favourable for such transformation.

He reflected on the century-long journey of the RSS, stating that since its founding, the organisation has worked relentlessly to unite and empower Hindu society. “Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder of the RSS, deeply studied the causes of India’s subjugation and realised that the lack of unity and the absence of ‘Swabodh’—awareness of self-identity—were the root causes. Without awakening this sense of self and collective consciousness, the nation cannot achieve its true glory,” Dr. Pati said.

“Five Transformations for a Strong Society”

Dr. Pati elaborated on the Sangh’s initiative for its centenary year, known as Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations), which includes: Swabodh, Nagarik Kartavya, Paryavaran Suraksha, Samajik Samarasata, and Kutumb Prabodhan. “These five areas, if implemented with sincerity, can bring about a major transformation in society,” he stated.

Dr. Pati also emphasised the importance of Swabodh in the functioning of national institutions. Citing an example, he said, “Even after 75 years of independence, our judiciary still follows the British practice of taking summer vacations—a tradition that originated because British judges could not tolerate India’s heat. Such habits persist due to a lack of ‘Swabodh’—our sense of self. To build a self-reliant nation, we must awaken that inner identity.”

He added that fostering civic sense, obeying laws, promoting social harmony, and strengthening families are essential for creating a prosperous, ethical, and united India. “By promoting environmental awareness, we can protect creation itself; by preserving family values, we can safeguard our cultural foundation,” he concluded.

“Be Indebted to Samaj , Not Indifferent”

At the conference, Bhubaneswar District Sanghchalak Srinivas Manasingh highlighted the moral duty of every citizen towards society. “Every individual living in society is indebted to it. Our responsibility is to repay that debt by contributing positively to the samaj,” he stated.

He further noted that some extraordinary individuals go above and beyond, performing actions that leave society indebted to them. “Such people become great personalities. One does not need wealth, power, or formal education to serve society; determination and compassion are sufficient,” he remarked.

Manasingh cited the inspiring example of Dashrath Manjhi, known as the “Mountain Man” of Bihar, who single-handedly carved a path through a mountain to benefit his village. “Despite lacking resources or formal education, Manjhi’s perseverance made society indebted to him. Young people should take inspiration from such lives and continually strive to repay their debt to society,” he urged.

He encouraged the youth to take active initiatives in their communities, foster unity, and promote positive social change through collective action.

“Youth as the Architects of a Developed India”

The conference concluded with an impassioned call for the youth to rise above personal ambitions and contribute to national development through character, discipline, and service. Speakers emphasised that the dream of a developed and self-reliant India by 2047 can only be realised if the country’s youth embrace the ideals of patriotism, social harmony, and civic responsibility.