by Nava Thakuria
Guwahati : Amid ongoing concerns over the fragile situation in Manipur, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar, expressed cautious optimism regarding the state’s gradual return to peace and normalcy. Speaking to media at the conclusion of the Akhil Bharatiya Prant Pracharak Baithak held in New Delhi, Ambekar said encouraging developments were visible on the ground.
“When a situation deteriorates somewhere, it does not improve overnight. But compared to last year, normalcy has started to return in Manipur. This is the beginning of peace. Dialogues are ongoing from both sides, and we expect a constructive path to emerge,” Ambekar said. His comments come at a time when several initiatives are underway to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation between the Meitei and Kuki communities. While the situation remains sensitive, efforts by social and spiritual organizations are showing signs of progress, though complete normalcy, he admitted, will take more time.
The Baithak, a key annual strategy meeting of the RSS, was held on July 4, 5, and 6 at Keshav Kunj in Delhi’s Jhandewalan locality. Over 230 Pracharaks and Karyakartas from all 46 prants across the country attended. RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale provided guidance, while all Sah-Sarkaryavahs—including Dr. Krishnagopal, CR Mukund, Arun Kumar, Shri Ramdutt, Atul Limaye, and Alok Kumar—along with sangathan mantris from 32 RSS-inspired organizations, participated.
Ambekar announced that the centenary year of RSS (2025–26) will witness a large-scale outreach programme. Over one lakh Hindu Sammelans will be held at the Mandal level in rural areas and the Basti level in urban areas. These Sammelans will focus on social unity, traditional festivals, and RSS’s vision of Panch Parivartan (five transformations). There are currently 58,964 Mandals and 44,055 Bastis under the Sangh’s structure.
Additionally, Samajik Sadbhav Baithaks (social harmony meetings) will be organized in 11,360 blocks and towns to promote harmony among diverse communities. In 924 districts, Pramukh Nagrik Seminars will be held, focusing on topics such as Ideas of Bharat, Pride of Bharat, and Bharat’s Swa. The Sangh will also conduct an extensive Grih Sampark (household outreach) campaign to reach every home in every village and basti. These events will officially begin with the nationwide Vijayadashami Utsav, in which swayamsevaks from all walks of life, including professionals, will participate.
Ambekar emphasized that while India is witnessing significant growth in technology and the economy, true progress must also include the core values of Indian society—individual welfare, harmony, and environmental mindfulness. “These values must accompany our growth. If society embraces these ideals, our progress will be inclusive and collective,” he said.
The Baithak also discussed contemporary issues including the situation in Manipur. Karyakartas from border regions shared their experiences, ongoing challenges, and social harmony efforts.
From April to June this year, 100 Prashikshan Vargs (training camps) were conducted nationwide. A total of 17,609 Karyakartas under 40 were trained in 75 camps, while 4,270 Shiksharthis between the ages of 40 and 60 participated in 25 camps. Karyakartas from 8,812 locations took part in the Sangh Shiksha Varg training sessions.
Responding to a media query, Ambekar firmly stated that religious conversions carried out through greed, coercion, or exploitation are unacceptable. He also reiterated RSS’s belief in all Indian languages as national languages and supported mother-tongue-based primary education. On the issue of Naxalism, he credited people’s resistance and government efforts for the visible decline in left-wing extremism, adding that violence must end and constructive dialogue should replace confrontation.
The press conference held on July 7 was also attended by Delhi Prant Sanghchalak Dr. Anil Agarwal and Akhil Bharatiya Sah Prachar Pramukhs Narendra Thakur and Pradip Joshi.
