For a person like me to say anything about the RSS is like showing a lamp to the sun. I had the opportunity to witness the selfless service of the RSS cadre during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022. Over the last year and a half, since retiring from my military career, I have been involved with various RSS functions. Since I have been writing regularly for Organiser and Panchjanya, I also have the opportunity to read various articles about the RSS that appear in these magazines.
What has struck me the most about RSS is its uncanny similarity to the Indian Army. It is this resemblance which has endeared me the most to this nationalist organisation. The organisational structure of RSS, from Shakha, Jila, Prant, Kshetra, and Kendriya Kaaryakari, can be compared to that of the Indian Army, which includes Battalion, Brigade, Division, Command, and Army Headquarters. Much like a soldier, an RSS karyakarta is at the core of this organisation. The Indian Army places a premium on the cutting edge of a soldier, and so does the RSS rely on the dedication of an RSS karyakarta.
The Indian Army is also a karyakarta army, where soldiers and officers join to serve the nation at their own will, but they are paid for their services. However, finding karyakartas who serve solely for the national interest, without any pay, is the hallmark of the RSS. This type of association with selfless service is unique to the RSS, and there is no such parallel in India. Notably, the RSS is the only organisation where members contribute to its running. In today’s materialistic world, RSS still does not accept any donation or grant to run the organisation.
I have been asked many times about the reasons for the Indian Army’s success in every war and conflict since independence. The answer, every time, is the rigorous training of soldiers and officers throughout their careers. The Indian Army prides itself on the best institutionalised training in the world. Similarly, I found that the RSS too follows a well-planned training schedule right from the Shakha upwards. There are periodic training camps that include both physical and intellectual sessions. It is no wonder that both organisations maintain the highest standards of discipline and dedication at all times.
I have noticed that the RSS karyakartas demonstrate a very high standard of physical training, parade and marching to the tunes of a dedicated band, very similar to the Indian Army. One can notice the highest standards of discipline among the karyakartas who brave extreme weather conditions during training. Even with meagre facilities, I now fully understand how an RSS karyakarta remains steadfast against so many adversities. It has a lot to do with the strict training regimen in the RSS, so much like that of the Indian Army.
Another common feature is its pan-India presence across the country. The RSS has a pan-India presence through its shakhas throughout the country. The RSS maintains a distinct presence even in remote areas of the country, much like the Indian Army. The RSS continues people-friendly activities even in conflict-ridden areas, be it in Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, or the LWE-affected Chhattisgarh. The selfless cadre of the RSS continues to serve the people in every adverse situation.
The record of the RSS in disaster relief and assistance during the natural calamities is most remarkable and unparalleled. I have personally witnessed the exceptional commitment of RSS karyakartas during the COVID-19 pandemic. During natural calamities, RSS karyakartas are invariably the first responders, even with limited resources at their disposal. During the recent cloudburst and landslide in Dharaali and Harsil, Uttarakhand, RSS karyakartas were seen providing relief materials alongside the Army and NDRF/SDRF personnel.
Shashtra Puja is another commonality between the RSS and the Indian Army. On Dussehra, both organisations conduct Shashtra Puja with religious fervour. For a soldier and an RSS karyakarta, it is essential to respect and appreciate the tools and equipment that protect the nation. Indian Army takes great care to maintain the serviceability of weapons and equipment at all times. It is hoped that these weapons and equipment will always succeed in destroying the enemy and never malfunction.
Although the RSS is a much larger organisation than the Indian Army in terms of its karyakarta base, both organisations maintain the highest standards of discipline and dedication to the nation’s cause. Both organisations continue to make significant contributions towards nation-building. Both organisations have to remain progressive to meet the future challenges of national security and global upheavals. Both organisations can learn a great deal from each other and become a stronger force, complementing each other. I salute the outstanding service rendered by the RSS in the service of the nation. I also wish the RSS another century of glorious service to the nation. Jai Bharat!
