Lucknow, Feb 17 (NationPress) The chief of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Mohan Bhagwat, urged the Hindu community on Tuesday to come together, fortify itself, and take effective actions to counteract the population decline, prevent forced conversions, and hasten the 'Ghar Wapsi' initiative, while staying vigilant against both external and internal threats.

Speaking at a social harmony event at Saraswati Shishu Mandir in Nirala Nagar, Lucknow, Bhagwat reassured that Hindus do not face immediate dangers but emphasized the need for continuous vigilance and proactive measures. He expressed grave concerns regarding the declining Hindu population, advocating that families should aspire to have a minimum of three children, labeling it crucial for the community's long-term viability.

“Research indicates that any society where the average number of children per household dips below three is at risk of disappearing in future generations,” he stated, urging newlyweds to embrace this responsibility.

He highlighted that the genuine objective of marriage is to advance society through a sense of duty, rather than merely fulfilling personal desires. Bhagwat called for an immediate cessation of conversions motivated by greed, inducement, or coercion, and advocated for the acceleration of the 'Ghar Wapsi' campaign to welcome back those wishing to revert to Hinduism.

He stressed the necessity of providing adequate support and integration for returnees. Addressing the issue of illegal immigration, the RSS chief firmly stated that infiltrators must be promptly identified, excluded from society, deported, and denied any employment opportunities.

He reiterated the importance of an organized and empowered Hindu society to protect its identity and future while simultaneously fostering harmony and eliminating all forms of discrimination within the broader Indian family.

Bhagwat's address attracted representatives from various spiritual and social organizations, emphasizing the call for unity and collective accountability. He advised Hindu families to aim for a minimum of three children, referencing scientific observations that societies averaging fewer than three children face extinction risks in the future. This crucial message, he asserted, should resonate with newly married couples.

The RSS chief portrayed the essence of marriage as a commitment to advance society with a sense of duty, rather than merely satisfying personal desires. Stressing the importance of harmony, he pointed out that its absence fosters discrimination. All individuals are children of one motherland and, as humans, are inherently united. Discrimination has evolved as a habit over time that needs to be eradicated.

He noted that Sanatan philosophy advocates for harmony, a truth that resonates universally. There is no need to destroy adversaries; understanding this philosophy can eliminate divisions.

Bhagwat asserted the significance of women's empowerment as the cornerstone of family and home. Traditionally, men were providers while mothers managed household expenses. Women adapt to new families after marriage and should be viewed as powerful figures, comparable to warriors and demons in cultural narratives.

He advocated for the training of women in self-defense. Contrary to Western perceptions of women as mere wives, Indian traditions regard them as mothers whose love outweighs physical beauty.

Responding to inquiries about University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, Bhagwat stated that all must adhere to the law. If a law is flawed, constitutional mechanisms are available for amendments. He cautioned that caste should never incite conflict; a robust sense of belonging can prevent such issues. Those who have diverged should be welcomed back with respect, promoting unity through collaboration rather than suppression or elevation of one group over another.

He confidently proclaimed that India would soon guide the world, providing solutions to global challenges.

Bhagwat encouraged regular community meetings focused on social harmony to dispel misunderstandings, challenge stereotypes, tackle issues, and support the vulnerable. He warned against potential conspiracies by certain factions in countries like the US and China aimed at undermining goodwill, urging for caution, the cessation of internal distrust, and the sharing of joys and sorrows.

Representatives from diverse communities, including Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain groups, along with organizations such as Ramakrishna Mission, ISKCON, Art of Living, Sant Nirankari Ashram, Arya Samaj, and others, participated in the event.