Sangh Eyes Decentralisation, To Expand From 46 Provinces To 86 Divs Pan India

Nagpur: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) unveiled a major restructuring plan to expand its administrative framework from 46 ‘prants' (provinces) to around 86 ‘sambhags' (divisions) across India, marking a significant shift aimed at decentralising operations and strengthening grassroots engagement in its centenary year.The transition, expected by March 2027, is intended to create smaller, more manageable administrative units. "The move aims to improve local coordination and expedite decision-making," said Vidarbha prant karyavah Atul Moghe.Speaking alongside Vidarbha prant sanghchalak Deepak Tamshettiwar, Nagpur mahanagar secretary Ravindra Bokare, and publicity in-charge Brajesh Manas, Moghe said Maharashtra's structure will expand from four to seven ‘sambhags', while Gujarat will increase from two to three and Madhya Pradesh from three to seven. The next Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha is expected to be held in Nagpur, where the new framework may be finalised along with further organisational changes.The restructuring follows a detailed review at the recent Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha at Samalkha, Haryana. Presenting the data, Moghe said daily ‘shakhas' increased by 5,820, rising from 83,129 to 88,949, while operational locations grew from 51,740 to 55,683."The three-day meeting from March 13-15 recorded 1,438 attendees, reflecting a participation rate of about 96%," Moghe said, adding the annual report presented by general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale reviewed nationwide activities and assessed the current national and global context.The leadership, including Mohan Bhagwat, highlighted extensive nationwide engagements and emphasised expanding activities in remote regions over next five years, with a focus on improving quality of organisational work.Large-scale public engagement remained central to the expansion. Vijayadashami programmes numbered 62,655 nationwide, drawing participation of over 27 lakh youth and 5.26 lakh children, taking total attendance beyond 32.45 lakh. Path sanchalan events recorded participation exceeding 25.35 lakh.