Gen Z’ is Honest and Patriotic: RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat

Emphasizes the need to take the new generation into confidence; calls for friendly dialogue rather than criticism.

Mumbai, August 7: Addressing a major youth interaction event held at BKC in Mumbai, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat shared highly positive and reassuring thoughts regarding “Gen Z” generation.

Dr. Bhagwat stated that while society often questions the behavior and mindset of modern youth, today’s new generation is even more honest and patriotic than previous generations. He emphasized that instead of harboring distrust towards them, society needs to understand and engage with them.

During an open dialogue with Rishabh Shah, founder of ‘India’s International Movement to Unite Nations’ (I.I.M.U.N.), Dr. Bhagwat fielded questions on several critical, modern, and sensitive issues facing the nation.

Key Highlights of the Address

• Youth Movements and National Loyalty: Addressing concerns over various youth-led protests across the country, Dr. Bhagwat clarified that youth protests do not stem from anti-national tendencies, nor are they destructive by nature. Rather, they arise due to a lack of communication. He noted that while their methods of expression may differ in this technological era, their loyalty to their motherland remains firm and unquestionable.

• Need for Logical Answers and Friendly Dialogue: Dr. Bhagwat asserted that today’s youth ask questions because they seek logical answers, which can only be achieved through open dialogue. He advised the older generation to refrain from merely criticizing the youth, suggesting instead that a candid, friendly dialogue will address their doubts and channel their immense energy toward nation-building.

• Reforming Education: Strongly criticizing the commercialization of education, he stated that education is not a trade but a foundation for life. He urged society not to rely solely on the government and to take active ownership of school and educational development.

• Reservation Policy: Dr. Bhagwat reiterated the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, affirming that reservation must continue as long as social discrimination exists in society. However, he expressed the hope that those who have already benefited from reservation should voluntarily step forward to give up these benefits, allowing other underprivileged sections of society to gain opportunities. He also criticized political tendencies that use reservation as a tool to divide society.

• Dignity of Labor and Employment: Expressing concern over the current mindset regarding jobs, Dr. Bhagwat stressed that society lacks respect for manual work. He stated that employment shouldn’t just mean “white-collar jobs,” highlighting an urgent need to foster entrepreneurship and restore the ‘dignity of labor’.

• National Interest in Foreign Relations: When asked about India’s relations with Pakistan and China, Dr. Bhagwat emphasized prioritizing national interest above all. He noted that during times of conflict or war, citizens must stand fully behind the government and the armed forces. However, keeping long-term perspectives in mind, he highlighted Indian culture’s core philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (world brotherhood), stating that perpetual hatred cannot solve any problem.

• Perspective on LGBTQ+ and Same-Sex Marriage: Dr. Bhagwat presented a broad cultural view on LGBTQ+ issues, stating that this community is very much a part of our own society and should be accommodated respectfully. However, regarding same-sex marriage, he firmly stated that while society can create special legal provisions or systems to support them, marriage remains a sacred institution meant for nurturing future generations, and its fundamental structure should not be altered.

• Women’s Role in Decision-Making: Highlighting the contribution of women in nation-building, Dr. Bhagwat stated that men and women are complementary and equal partners, illustrating with examples how women participate actively even in top-level decision-making processes.