Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday (June 15, 2026) criticised what he described as the excessive consumption-driven development model of the United States, saying if the entire world were to adopt the American standard of living, several Earths would not be enough for humanity to sustain itself.

Speaking at the 18th BML Munjal Awards held in Delhi, Mr. Bhagwat argued that economic prosperity must be guided by restraint, ethical conduct and concern for the welfare of others.

“The best living standard is often associated with America. But if we 142 crore Indians will start living like America then one Earth will not suffice; six Earths will be needed..... They are taking this much of resources of the planet without thinking that others also have a right to resources,” he said.

Contrasting India’s civilisational ethos with what he portrayed as a self-interest-driven global order, Mr. Bhagwat said countries often extend friendship and cooperation only when their strategic or economic interests were served.

Referring to the United States, he said relations of this country were frequently shaped by a clause that is “provided that American interests are protected”.

Helping neighbours

He cited India’s assistance to neighbouring countries during crises, including supplying water to the Maldives and extending support to Sri Lanka even when China was trying to spread its legs in the country, as examples of a different approach rooted in duty and goodwill. “It was not China which helped Sri Lanka, it was India....We may not be wealthy enough to help everyone, but when neighbours are in need, we stand by them,” the RSS chief said.

Mr. Bhagwat said India had historically viewed prosperity as a means of collective welfare rather than individual accumulation. Calling for the creation of economic strength, he cautioned that power without character could be destructive. “The world listens to the powerful. Therefore, we need strength of every kind. But power must be accompanied by good intent and character,” he said.

“Bharat bhi agar America or China jaisa mahashaktishali banega to Bharat apna saar kho dega,” (if India will try to become like these superpower nations such as America and China, it will lose its essence), said Mr. Bhagwat.

He expressed concern over the increasing economic gap in India and said this needed to be reduced to ensure that the country was developed like it used to be one.

Mr. Bhagwat also dwelt on the concept of dharma, distinguishing it from religion and describing it as an intrinsic nature that binded society together. Sustainability, he said, was fundamentally the work of dharma because it prevented fragmentation and ensured harmony.

“India is not merely a geographical entity; it is a path and a way of life,” the RSS chief said. While generations change over time, they continue to move along the same civilisational path, he added.