India Should Offer World a New Development Model Rooted in Tradition: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Mohan Bhagwat Calls for a New Development Model Based on Indian Traditions

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday, November 12, 2026, said India should offer the world a new model of development rooted in its traditional knowledge and experience.

Addressing a gathering after the inauguration of a veterinary and agriculture college established by the Datta Meghe Foundation at Ramtek in Nagpur district, Bhagwat said the world was increasingly looking towards India for solutions to contemporary challenges.

He argued that India's traditional understanding of life, its holistic approach and emphasis on self-reliance could contribute to a development framework that benefits people as well as the natural environment.

'We Are Not Masters of Nature'

During his address, Bhagwat emphasised that human beings should not consider themselves separate from or superior to nature.

"We are not masters of nature; we are a part of it," he said.

He highlighted the connection between biodiversity, ecology, animal health and environmental conservation, saying all these factors are essential for human well-being.

According to him, development should not focus only on individual prosperity. Instead, people should adopt a lifestyle that considers the welfare of other people, animals and the environment.

"Our vision of life should be such that it is not merely about my life, but about everyone's life," Bhagwat said.

Bhagwat Highlights the One Health Concept

The RSS chief also referred to the concept of One Health, which recognises the close relationship between human health, animal health and environmental conditions.

He observed that the concept had become familiar in modern discussions over the past 20 to 30 years, although India had traditionally followed an integrated approach to life.

Bhagwat warned that environmental damage could directly affect human health. Diseases affecting animals can also spread to people, making animal healthcare and environmental protection important public-health concerns.

He said a healthy environment was necessary for maintaining human health and stressed the need to consider the well-being of all living beings.

Self-Reliance Is Essential for Independence

Bhagwat also underlined the importance of self-reliance, saying excessive dependence on others could expose individuals and countries to pressure and exploitation.

He argued that self-reliance was essential for maintaining independence and building long-term strength.

The RSS chief said India's development should not be limited to its own progress. Instead, the country should contribute to the development and welfare of the wider world.

He also called for a balanced approach to success, reminding people not to become arrogant after achieving recognition or prosperity and to remain mindful of those who are left behind.

Focus on Indigenous Cattle Breeds

Referring to India's livestock resources, Bhagwat expressed concern that indigenous cattle breeds had not received adequate attention.

He said India had imported foreign cattle varieties to improve milk production while neglecting its own traditional breeds.

According to him, cattle taken from India had contributed to the development of breeds in other countries, while India had not fully utilised its indigenous resources and knowledge.

He emphasised the importance of recognising and developing traditional livestock resources as part of a broader approach to agricultural progress.

Devendra Fadnavis Highlights Climate Challenges in Agriculture

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the gathering and spoke about the impact of climate change on agriculture.

He said changing climatic conditions were creating difficulties for farmers and stressed the need for research, innovation and skilled manpower to improve agricultural productivity.

Fadnavis highlighted the importance of strengthening agricultural institutions and developing solutions that could improve farmers' incomes and support the rural economy.

Nitin Gadkari Discusses Dairy Development in Vidarbha

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari spoke about the dairy sector's potential in the Vidarbha region.

He said Vidarbha produced around one crore litres of milk, compared with approximately eight crore litres in Kolhapur.

Gadkari also referred to the expansion of the Mother Dairy plant in Nagpur, saying it would help strengthen the region's dairy infrastructure.

He added that the establishment of agricultural and veterinary colleges would support regional development by improving education, research and technical expertise.

Conclusion

Mohan Bhagwat's remarks at Ramtek focused on the relationship between traditional Indian knowledge and contemporary development challenges. He called for a model that gives importance to human welfare, animal health, environmental protection and self-reliance.

The event also highlighted the role of agricultural education, veterinary research and dairy infrastructure in regional development. Bhagwat said India's progress should contribute not only to its own prosperity but also to the well-being of the wider world.