His Eminence Palga Rinpoche attends as Chief Guest; RSS National Executive Member Dr. Manmohan Vaidya delivers keynote address
Leh, October 24, 2026: A programme titled *“Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) @100: Vision and Mission — Organising Society, Building Character, Serving Bharat”* was organised in Leh, Ladakh, on Saturday to mark the completion of 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
The programme brought together deliberations on Bharat’s civilisational heritage, national consciousness, cultural values, social harmony and the role of individual character in nation-building.
His Eminence Palga Rinpoche attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Manmohan Vaidya, National Executive Member, RSS, delivered the keynote address. The introductory address was delivered by Padma Shri Dr. Padma Gurmeet Ji, Vibhag Sanghchalak, Ladakh Vibhag. Dr. Dawa Wangmo, Assistant Professor, Department of International Relations, University of Ladakh, moderated the programme.
Addressing the gathering, His Eminence Palga Rinpoche emphasised the importance of understanding Bharat’s ancient civilisation, respecting its cultural values and nurturing a strong sense of national responsibility. He highlighted the dedication and sacrifices of Indian Army personnel in safeguarding the nation, particularly in challenging geographical and climatic conditions, and appreciated the RSS’s century-long journey of social service and nation-building.
In his keynote address, Dr. Manmohan Vaidya elaborated on *Panch Parivartan*, or the Five Transformations, highlighting character-building, social harmony, collective responsibility and the importance of understanding Bharat’s historical and civilisational legacy.
He also reflected on Bharat’s historical economic strength, indigenous skills and the contributions of women to the country’s social, cultural and economic development. Emphasising that national commitment must be reflected in everyday conduct, he called for translating values and ideals into meaningful action for society and the nation.
The message *“Bharat ko maano, phir jaano”* underscored the importance of recognising Bharat’s civilisational significance and deepening understanding of its history, cultural traditions and diverse contributions. Drawing upon the spirit of the patriotic expression *“Saare Jahan Se Achha, Hindustan Hamara,”* the keynote also emphasised that citizens should actively contribute to nurturing, protecting and strengthening the nation rather than remaining passive beneficiaries of its progress.
The discussions highlighted the interconnected roles of social organisation, individual integrity, discipline, mutual respect and sustained service in building a harmonious and self-reliant society. Participants also reflected on the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting indigenous knowledge, supporting education and encouraging constructive community participation.
The programme placed these themes in the context of Ladakh’s distinctive cultural heritage, geographical environment and strategic importance, emphasising the relevance of social cooperation, intergenerational learning and responsible citizenship.
The centenary programme concluded with a message of national pride, social unity, respect for the armed forces, cultural awareness and dedicated service to the nation. It reaffirmed that nation-building is a continuous process requiring individual responsibility, collective effort and a commitment to the welfare of society.
The central message of RSS@100 was clear: organising society, building character and serving Bharat must find expression in the everyday actions and responsibilities of citizens.*
