New Delhi, Oct 1 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi today cautioned against the pressing challenges stemming from demographic shifts which are undermining social equality and national cohesion and said the gravity of demographic imbalances pose greater threat than even infiltration.
Pointing out that infiltration and foreign influence have long posed threats to India’s unity, the Prime Minister said India’s cultural foundation rests on unity and once that is compromised, the nation’s strength could erode. He emphasized that India’s strength lies in its unity in diversity.
Speaking at the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) here, he warned that internal divisions—fueled by caste, language, regionalism, and extremist ideologies—could weaken the nation if not actively addressed.
“Social equality means ensuring justice by prioritising the deprived and reinforcing national unity. But today, we are facing a growing set of challenges—extremist thinking, regionalism, and divisive narratives stoked by both internal and external forces,” he said.
He said India’s cultural foundation rests on unity and once that is compromised, the nation’s strength could erode.
“A large section of our population is emerging from poverty. New sectors are opening opportunities for the youth. India’s global influence is growing—from diplomacy to climate leadership. But as we grow, so do the attempts to divide us,” he added.
Referring to his earlier address from the Red Fort on August 15, Prime Minister Modi said these concerns had prompted the announcement of the Demography Mission, a national initiative aimed at safeguarding the country’s social fabric and ensuring long-term internal security.
Unveiling the plan in his Independence Day address, PM Modi had said infiltrators were “snatching the livelihood of youth, targeting sisters and daughters, misleading tribals and capturing land,” and stressed that the mission would coordinate efforts to monitor demographic changes, strengthen security and act against unlawful settlement.
At the RSS event after releasing stamps and a Rs100 coin commemorating RSS’s Centenary, the PM reiterated that “Economic dependence on foreign powers and attempts to alter our demographic profile are part of a larger conspiracy to disrupt our unity.”
Modi expressed confidence in the government’s ability to swiftly tackle these issues and also lauded the RSS for not only recognizing these evolving challenges but for preparing a concrete roadmap to address them.
“As Prime Minister, I am satisfied that these concerns are being handled with urgency. And as a swayamsevak, I am proud that the Sangh has remained committed to national unity and cultural integrity,” he said.
The PM also called upon the people to adopt the mantra of swadeshi as a collective resolve and asserted that self-reliance is no longer an option but a necessity. Everyone must dedicate their full energy towards making the “Vocal for Local” campaign a resounding success, he said.
Modi further highlighted that protecting the environment is essential for both present and future generations, and is directly linked to the future of humanity. He stressed the need to focus not only on the economy but also on ecology. Campaigns such as water conservation, green energy, and clean energy are vital steps in this direction, he pointed out.
