New Delhi: As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marks its centenary, the organization has outlined an ambitious expansion plan, while also passing a resolution on the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh at its annual Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS). The three-day gathering, beginning on March 21 at the Janaseva Vidya Kendra in Channenahalli, will see key discussions on the Sangh’s growth, its nationwide outreach programs, and pressing regional concerns.
The ABPS is the highest decision-making body of the RSS, convened annually to assess the organization’s progress, discuss major socio-political developments, and set its future course. It brings together representatives from across the country, including functionaries from various Sangh-affiliated organizations. Resolutions passed at the ABPS are considered key indicators of the RSS’s ideological and strategic priorities for the coming year. Its last meeting was held in Nagpur, Maharashtra last year.
The Sangh leaders are meeting in Bengaluru at a crucial time, as the BJP is set to announce its next national president to replace the incumbent, Jagat Prakash Nadda. Additionally, a possible meeting between the RSS head and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated at the end of this month. The upcoming Bihar elections and the key issues that need to be addressed are also likely to be part of the discussions.
Speaking to the media, RSS ‘Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh’ Sunil Ambekar, along with ‘Akhil Bharatiya Sah Prachar Pramukhs’ Narendra Kumar and Pradeep Joshi, and N. Tippeswamy, ‘Kshetra Karyavah’ of ‘Dakshin Madhya Kshetra’, confirmed that RSS Sarasanghachalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat and Sarakaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale would jointly inaugurate the ABPS. During the event, Hosabale will present a report on the status of Sangh activities across the country.
The centenary of the RSS, running from Vijayadashami 2025 to Vijayadashami 2026, will see a major expansion of its work, with outreach programs designed to involve people from all walks of life. The organization’s ‘Panch Parivartan’ initiative—covering social harmony, family awareness, environmental consciousness, self-reliance, and civic duties—will be a key focus. Extensive nationwide engagement will take place as part of the centenary events.
A significant resolution will be passed on the situation in Bangladesh, focusing on the persecution of Hindus and other minorities. The resolution will outline concerns regarding religious violence and propose a way forward. The RSS, which has historically raised issues related to Hindus abroad, is expected to take a firm stance on the matter.
Earlier this week, United States Intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard, who was in Delhi, had raised serious concerns over religious persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh that has been happening since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was removed by protestors in August last year.
Another resolution will trace the RSS’s journey over the past century, highlight its contributions, and lay out its vision for the future. Something that PM Modi has also spoken about recently.
Commemorating the 500th birth anniversary of Rani Abbakka, a 16th-century warrior queen from Karnataka, the ABPS will release a special statement recognizing her contributions. Abbakka, known for her defiance against Portuguese colonial forces, remains a significant historical figure in Karnataka’s resistance narrative.
The RSS will conduct 95 training programs (Prashikshan Vargs) this year, divided into Sangh Shiksha Varg (SSV) and Karyakarta Vikas Varg (KVV) for different age groups. Seventy-two of these will be for those under 40, while 23 will cater to individuals above 40. The ABPS will also finalize the travel plans of Mohan Bhagwat, who will undertake a nationwide tour (Pravas) to engage with functionaries and expand organizational outreach.
This year’s ABPS is being held in Bengaluru after a four-year gap and will see the participation of Sangh-affiliated organizations, including the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, Rashtra Sevika Samiti, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), and Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram. BJP National President Nadda, along with representatives from Vidya Bharati and other allied groups, will also be present.
Ambekar stated that there has been a significant rise in the number of young people seeking to join the organization. At the end of the meet, on 23 March, Hosabale is expected to hold a press conference to speak on Sangh’s evolving strategies and its approach to key national and regional issues.