New York, August 30: Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), stated that it is humanity’s duty to protect the environment and the world. Speaking at a Universal Unity event held at Madison Square Garden, he advocated for development models that allow people to prosper without harming nature.
During his address, Bhagwat noted that development and environmental protection are often portrayed as opposing goals. He remarked, “The world is facing numerous challenges. Development harms the environment. Saving the environment is often seen as halting development. So, what is the solution?”
He further emphasized the need to show the way forward, citing that our ancestors demonstrated this through their sacrifices and restraint. Bhagwat highlighted that India’s civilizational thinking places responsibility at the center of human life. People should consider whether their actions benefit not only their own lives but also society and nature.
He stated, “We are connected to nature. We must ensure that whatever we do benefits not just us, but everything around us.” He argued that human intelligence should not be used to dominate or destroy the natural world. Instead, it brings a greater responsibility to protect other forms of life.
Bhagwat pointed out, “Humans are responsible for the world because they have been endowed with the ability to think and understand. They also possess a sense of right and wrong.”
Referring to the increasing significance of humans in the food chain, Bhagwat mentioned that their progress has come at a significant environmental cost. He said, “Humans entered this food chain late and were at the bottom, but within 3,000 years, they reached the middle and in 7,000 years, they topped it, destroying 8,000 plant species and nearly 5,000 animal species.”
He added, “Animals could escape, which is why they survived. Plants cannot escape. This is not how humans should live.” Bhagwat asserted that having better understanding does not mean humans have become the owners of creation. Instead, they should take on the responsibility of preserving the existence of others.
He urged, “You are the most intelligent. You have surpassed the limits of nature and are living very well. Therefore, it is your responsibility to ensure the survival of all.” He called on people to move beyond merely allowing others to live and instead actively assist them in thriving.
Bhagwat concluded, “We must care for one another. We must do so in a way that my life sustains someone else’s. I should support others. I should not just let others live, but also live myself and help others live. This is the message.”
He suggested that instead of waiting for widespread change, individuals can initiate transformation through small adjustments in their daily behavior.
Bhagwat also referenced the RSS’s ‘Panch Parivartan’ program, stating that its principles must first be adopted by individuals before spreading to society. He affirmed, “These principles will sustain humanity. They will preserve the environment. They will protect creation and existence. That is the goal.”
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