100 Years of Sangh Yatra: Technology should not dominate us, and education must build character — Dr Mohan Bhagwat

NEW DELHI — Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak, Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, stated that there is no conflict between technology and education, but stressed that education must focus on building a complete, cultured human being, not just on imparting information. He was addressing the question and answer session on the third day of a three-day lecture series, ‘100 Years of the Sangh’s Journey: New Horizons,’ at Vigyan Bhawan on August 28.

Responding to a question about preserving cultural values in the age of technology and modernisation, the Dr Bhagwat said that technology is created for human welfare. The responsibility lies with human beings to use it wisely and avoid its negative consequences. He emphasised that humans must not allow technology to dominate them.

Dr. Bhagwat stated that education is more than just literacy or memorising information. It is about instilling right values that make a person discerning and wise. He said, “Education is that which gives a person the wisdom to use even poison as medicine.” He added that India’s traditional education system was intentionally destroyed by foreign invaders, who then imposed a new system designed to cultivate a “slave mentality” to facilitate their rule.

He argued that the purpose of education in an independent India should not be merely to be part of governance , but to nurture society and instill a sense of self-respect in the younger generation. He called the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 a significant step in this direction, as it incorporates the concept of ‘Panchakosha’ (five-layered) education, aiming for holistic development and connecting children to their glorious heritage.

On the topic of Sanskrit, Dr. Bhagwat said that while studying the language is essential for truly understanding India, it’s not necessary to make it compulsory. Instead, the focus should be on generating interest in it. He explained that language is merely a medium of expression, but the core purpose of education must be to spread the universal values linked to Indian culture and traditions.

He asserted that education is not about religion but about providing universal values that bind society together and make individuals better people. “Respecting elders, staying away from arrogance, and adopting good values—these are universal values that apply equally in every society,” Dr. Bhagwat said. He stressed that these are the values that should truly define the direction of education.

Dr Bhagwat’s address resonated with the organisation’s overarching theme for its centenary celebration: the revival of national pride and cultural values. His remarks provided a clear vision for an education system that goes beyond academic knowledge to build a foundation of strong character, cultural awareness, and ethical responsibility in every individual.