Agniveer an experiment, open to review: RSS chief

Dehradun: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday described the Centre's Agniveer recruitment scheme as an "experiment" open to review and refinement based on experience, while addressing around 800 ex-servicemen at a programme organised by the Uttarakhand RSS unit as part of its centenary celebrations.Speaking to the gathering, which included retired senior defence officers from across the state, Bhagwat said policy measures must evolve through feedback and practical assessment. "If society is strong, the nation's defence will also be strong," he said, adding that disciplined and character-driven leadership within society remains central to national security and nation-building.He told participants that he had been attracted to the Indian Army in his youth and had obtained the National Cadet Corps (NCC) ‘C' certificate. Recalling his early interest in military life, he interacted with veterans about their experiences in service.Colonel Ajay Kothiyal (retd), who was present at the event, said, "Around 800 ex-servicemen, including several officers, participated. Veterans came from the remotest areas of Uttarakhand, including representatives from 23 vibrant villages and 10 mountaineers who have summited Everest." He added that veterans of the 1962 and 1971 wars, the Kargil war and the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) mission in Sri Lanka were also present.On the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Bhagwat said it was an important instrument for national integration. "A common civil framework can help reduce social disputes and strengthen unity," he said, while emphasising that wider consensus would be necessary for its implementation.On issues of national security, he reiterated that Kashmir is an integral part of India and called for a firm and vigilant approach against anti-India campaigns. "Safeguarding national interests requires clarity and resolve," he said. He also referred to Nepal and Bangladesh as part of the same cultural geography in a historical context.Addressing concerns specific to Uttarakhand, Bhagwat said migration from hill districts required sustained and planned intervention. He highlighted opportunities in education, healthcare and local entrepreneurship, particularly in the Garhwal region, and urged focused efforts to generate livelihoods in mountainous areas.Reiterating that RSS's core objective is "vyakti nirman" or individual character-building rather than electoral politics, Bhagwat urged ex-servicemen to continue contributing to social initiatives and nation-building beyond their years of service.