RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat inaugurated the newly constructed Sher Singh Karki Saraswati Vihar Bhawan in Muaani, Pithoragarh district. The school building, a project managed by Parvati Prema Jagati Saraswati Vihar Vidyalaya, Nainital, was officially handed over to the local community, promising to serve as a beacon of education and cultural preservation in the area.
Dr Bhagwat received a heartfelt traditional welcome from the border tribal communities of Pithoragarh. Dressed in their cultural attire, the local people performed customary rituals, reflecting the vibrant heritage of the Himalayan region. Distinguished guests, including former Uttarakhand Governor and Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshiyari and school management representative Shyam Ji Agarwal, were present to celebrate the occasion.
As part of the inauguration, Dr. Bhagwat planted a sandalwood tree in the school premises, sending a powerful message about the importance of environmental preservation. Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted the critical role of the Himalayan region in maintaining ecological balance and called for collective efforts to protect the environment.
In his address at the Anant Mukesh Ambani Auditorium, Dr Bhagwat emphasised the transformative power of education rooted in Indian values. He expressed his support for the ‘Vidya Bharati’ education system, which integrates traditional knowledge with modern learning.
“Education is meaningful only when it is applied for the greater good of society,” Dr. Bhagwat said. He underscored that cultural values (sanskaar) and an understanding of education’s purpose strengthen society. Highlighting historical examples, he noted how many great personalities achieved societal progress despite lacking formal education.
He further added, “The government can only provide 10 per cent of the employment opportunities needed by the youth. The remaining jobs and businesses must be created by society’s strength, innovation, and the skills learned through education.”
During the event, Bhagat Singh Koshiyari expressed his gratitude for Dr. Bhagwat’s visit to the remote border area, calling it a gesture of encouragement and support for the local people. He noted the significance of the newly constructed school, which is set to provide holistic education to children while preserving Indian cultural values.
Shyam Agarwal, representing the school administration, revealed plans for the future, including the expansion of the institution into a full-fledged hostel facility. He also shared a vision for establishing a university in the region, aligning with the New Education Policy and incorporating Indian traditions.
Dr Bhagwat hailed Uttarakhand as Tapobhoomi (the land of penance), acknowledging the sages and spiritual leaders who have enriched the region’s legacy of wisdom and spirituality. He remarked, “Thousands of sages perform penance here, and the fruits of their labor inspire and educate the people around them.”
Dr. Bhagwat encouraged the community to cherish and uphold the spiritual and cultural heritage of Uttarakhand, stressing that such values provide the foundation for a strong and self-reliant nation.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Uttarakhand Open University Vice-Chancellor Om Prakash Singh Negi, area pracharak Mahendra, state pracharak Dr Shailendra, state incharge Dinesh Semwal, state prachar pramukh Sanjay, Union Minister of State for Road Transport Ajay Tamta, and MLAs Bishan Singh Chuphal, Suresh Gadhiya, Suresh Suyal, and Ranjit Singh Jyala.
The Sher Singh Karki Saraswati Vihar Bhawan aims to uplift the border regions of Pithoragarh by offering quality education to children while promoting Indian cultural and environmental values. The initiative reflects the RSS’s vision of empowering society through education, self-reliance, and sustainable development.
