Nagpur, India: RSS Chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat has raised concerns about India’s declining population growth and said the country’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) should be at least 3. The current TFR, which is the average number of children a woman has in her lifetime, stands at 2.1. He was speaking at the Kathale Pariwar’s silver jubilee celebration in Nagpur on Sunday.

Bhagwat warned that if a society’s TFR drops below 2.1, it could face extinction over time. He explained that many cultures and languages have disappeared due to low birth rates. “Our population policy says the fertility rate should not go below 2.1. To sustain society, it should ideally be 3,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of families in society, calling them the foundation of culture. “Indian culture values family over the individual. To preserve our culture, we must follow family values,” he added.

Bhagwat touched on caste issues, saying discrimination still exists due to social behaviour, even though it is not supported by religious texts. He also mentioned that Indian culture promotes universal well-being and is not limited to caste, language, or region.

The event, attended by over 400 people, honoured members of the Kathale Pariwar for their contributions. Sanjay Kathale and Uday Kathale were among those recognized, and Madhushree Kathale gave a vote of thanks.