Mohan Bhagwat Says Tribals, Scheduled Castes Safeguarded India’s Cultural Identity Through Foreign Invasions

MUMBAI, May 3: Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said tribal communities and Scheduled Castes played a crucial role in preserving India’s cultural essence and traditional values despite centuries of invasions, social neglect and hardships. He emphasised that these communities must now be fully integrated into the country’s mainstream development process with equal opportunities and access to resources.
Speaking at the Karmayogi Awards ceremony in Mumbai, attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the RSS chief described service to society as a moral responsibility rather than an act of charity.
Bhagwat said Indian civilisation has survived for thousands of years because of its enduring values centred on collective welfare, compassion and social harmony. According to him, these principles remained alive even during difficult historical periods due to the resilience and sacrifices made by tribal groups and socially marginalised communities.
He stated that foreign invaders had recognised that India’s cultural ethos formed the soul of the nation and therefore targeted communities that safeguarded these traditions. Despite oppression and repeated hardships, tribal communities and Scheduled Castes ensured that the country’s core identity remained intact, he noted.
The RSS chief stressed that preserving cultural identity is directly linked to the survival of society itself. He said communities that protected these traditions over generations deserve equal respect, participation and access in the nation’s growth journey.
Calling for greater social inclusion, Bhagwat said educated and economically advanced sections of society had gradually distanced themselves from tribal and backward communities. He underlined the importance of bridging this social divide and ensuring that all sections receive equal access to development, education and public services.
He also spoke about the broader global situation, saying the world is currently facing instability and uncertainty. Bhagwat remarked that India has the potential to emerge as a guiding and stabilising force by not only resolving its own challenges but also contributing to global welfare.
According to him, India’s role should extend beyond national interests and focus on helping the world address issues of conflict, imbalance and social suffering. He said the country’s traditional values of coexistence and service can offer meaningful direction during uncertain times.
Bhagwat further stated that true personal growth comes from contributing to the welfare of others. Helping society progress, he said, ultimately strengthens individuals and reinforces the collective spirit of the nation.
The RSS chief concluded by reiterating that the cultural and spiritual identity preserved by tribal communities and Scheduled Castes represents the authentic foundation of Indian civilisation and must continue to be protected and respected.