Guwahati: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) kicked off its three-day annual meeting, the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), in Bengaluru on Friday. The event was inaugurated by Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale with floral tributes to Bharat Mata at the Janaseva Vidyakendra in Channenahalli.
RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Mukunda CR addressed the media on the inaugural day, revealing that a total of 1,482 functionaries are attending the national meet. He highlighted that the ABPS session began with paying homage to prominent personalities, including RSS functionaries and national figures who passed away in the past year.
The meeting, which is being held in the RSS centenary year, focuses on expansion, consolidation, and social impact. Mukunda CR shared impressive growth statistics, revealing that RSS now conducts 83,129 daily Shakhas at 51,570 locations across India. Weekly Milans and monthly Mandalis have also increased, with more than 115,000 RSS activities taking place nationwide.
The focus of the ABPS will be on analyzing and planning the Sangh’s work. Mukunda CR emphasized the importance of rural Mandals, noting a 67% increase in daily Shakhas and weekly Milans in rural areas compared to last year.
A key highlight was the launch of the Shatabdi Vistaraks initiative, which saw 2,453 Swayamsevaks dedicate two full years to Sangh expansion. Furthermore, youth engagement remains a priority, with 4,415 initial camps (Prarambhik Vargas) conducted, attracting over 2.2 lakh participants, many of whom are in the age group of 14-25.
The RSS also continues to engage women in various spheres, with over 46,000 women expressing interest in joining the organization through its website since 2012.
During the meeting, the activities of RSS-affiliated social organizations were also discussed. These include service projects across education, healthcare, and rural development. Mukunda CR cited the successful “Ek Thaila–Ek Thali Campaign” during the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, aimed at reducing the use of thermocol and polythene.
Addressing the current situation in Manipur, the Sah Sarkaryavah acknowledged the challenges faced by the region due to ongoing violence and highlighted RSS efforts to bring communities together for peace and harmony.
The meeting will also deliberate on important issues like national unity, social harmony, and the resolution of divisive agendas. The RSS plans to continue expanding its presence, particularly in southern India, and remains committed to resolving societal challenges through constructive dialogue and community-based efforts.