Tribals, SCs Preserved India’s Core Identity Despite Foreign Invasions: Bhagwat

MUMBAI, May 3: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said tribal communities and Scheduled Castes preserved India’s identity and civilisational ethos despite foreign invasions and prolonged hardships, stressing the need to integrate them into the mainstream development process with equal access to opportunities and services.

Speaking at the Karmayogi awards ceremony in Mumbai, attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Bhagwat underlined that these communities safeguarded the nation’s “soul” even as invaders targeted and uprooted those who upheld its value system.

He said the enduring ethos of Indian society—rooted in service and collective well-being—has survived for thousands of years despite challenges arising from both external invasions and internal indifference. Those who protected this ethos, he noted, often paid a heavy price.

“Despite such adversities, the country’s core identity remained intact among tribal communities and those belonging to SC and ST groups,” Bhagwat said, adding that their role is central to understanding India’s true identity.

Emphasising inclusive growth, he called for bridging the gap between these communities and the so-called educated and developed sections, which he said have gradually distanced themselves over time.

Bhagwat also highlighted that service to society is a duty, not a favour, and contributes to individual as well as collective growth. Helping others thrive, he said, strengthens the social fabric and elevates humanity.

Referring to global developments, he described the world as “stumbling forward” and struggling to maintain balance, asserting that India has the potential to emerge as a stabilising force.

“The country must not only solve its own problems but also help the world address similar challenges,” he said, adding that India should demonstrate its capacity to support global well-being while safeguarding its own interests.

He concluded by stressing that the identities preserved by tribal and marginalised communities represent the true essence of Indian society, warning that without identity, existence itself is at risk. (Agencies)