Nagpur, November 12, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday called for ecological self-restraint and sustainable development, saying humanity must recognise its dependence on nature and protect biodiversity rather than behave as its master.
Addressing a gathering in Ramtek in Nagpur district in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Bhagwat urged policymakers and society to draw upon India’s traditional knowledge systems to build a self-reliant and environmentally balanced model of development.
He was speaking at the unveiling of a memorial dedicated to veteran public leader late Datta Meghe. The event also marked the inauguration of Nandkishor Jaiswal Agricultural College and Shalinitai Datta Meghe Veterinary Hospital. State Ministers Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Ashish Jaiswal and Pankaj Bhoyar were also present.
“We used to believe that we are the masters of nature. However, we are a part of this universe along with nature, which makes us dependent on it and interdependent on one another,” Bhagwat said.
“Humans will be happy only when biodiversity and ecology thrive, and for that to happen, humans must impose certain restrictions on themselves. We are not the owners of nature, but a part of it.”
Drawing on his background as a veterinary doctor, Bhagwat stressed the connection between animal health, environmental well-being and human health. Referring to the global ‘One Health’ framework, he said the interdependence of people, animals and the environment had long been recognised in Indian traditions.
“Everyone experiences the fact that if the environment is not healthy, we cannot stay healthy. If the health of animals deteriorates, it not only affects income, but their diseases are also transmitted to humans,” he said.
Bhagwat cited traditional Diwali practices, including Vasubaras, dedicated to cattle, and the creation of Govardhan using cow dung, saying that customs once mocked in other parts of the world were now receiving scientific recognition.
He also expressed concern over India’s neglect of indigenous cattle breeds in favour of foreign varieties, saying the country could have improved its native livestock through selective development. He noted that Indian cattle had historically contributed to improving dairy yields abroad, while India had not adequately developed its own genetic resources.
Calling for a development model based on self-reliance and traditional wisdom, Bhagwat said India should build on the resources it already possessed rather than depend excessively on other countries. He added that the country’s progress should contribute to the well-being of the wider world.
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