New Delhi, Feb 8 (NationPress) The chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Mohan Bhagwat, emphasized on Sunday the crucial nature of India's participation in the global economy. He asserted that international trade agreements ought to be crafted to ensure mutual benefits while simultaneously safeguarding the interests of the nation and its farmers.

Speaking on the second day of the Mumbai Vyakhyanmala lecture series, part of the “100 Years of Sangh Journey”, Bhagwat remarked, “Individuals place their trust in power; they heed those who possess it.” He reflected on India’s civilizational message to the world, stating, “I will soon be heading to America, beginning my speech with ‘my dear sisters and brothers’, although I may not receive the same applause that Swami Vivekananda once did. Appreciation is often reserved for power.”

Regarding international economic collaboration, particularly the India-US trade discussions, the RSS chief emphasized the necessity for equitable agreements.

“International economic engagement is inevitable; isolation is not a viable option. In any deal, if we gain something, we are obliged to offer something in return. Ideally, we should strive for a win-win arrangement or at the very least secure our own advantages,” he stated. Bhagwat commended the current governance, asserting, “The administration we have witnessed over the past decade is bold and resilient.”

Addressing the agricultural sector, Bhagwat highlighted the need for farmers to be at the heart of policy frameworks. “Farmers should own their land and resources,” he cautioned against implementing untested reforms. He reminisced about India’s rich agricultural heritage, noting, “We once boasted 8-9 thousand varieties of rice; now we are left with just 3-4 thousand. Many varieties have been lost.” He warned that “swift experimentation and adopting practices without thorough testing can harm our farmers; all initiatives must undergo rigorous evaluation before being enacted.”

Bhagwat further discussed the ethical aspect of economic growth, asserting that development must benefit humanity as a whole. “Economic advancement should contribute to global betterment, not solely personal gain. This is what distinguishes us from mere animals,” he emphasized.

During the prior session of the event, the RSS chief asserted that India’s trade agreements should be established strictly on its own terms, free from external pressures. “We cannot retreat from the global stage, yet any agreement must reflect our conditions. We will not yield to external pressure or tariff considerations.”

While refraining from naming any specific countries or leaders, he remarked, “We are observing the actions of superpowers. Our aim is not to intimidate, but to be a guiding figure for the world as Vishwaguru.”