"People have become selfish and self-centred after attaining prosperity accompanied by material success... New-found streak of selfishment has taken the people to such a level where there could be found no difference between them and animals," he said in a speech after inaugurating 12th standard Saraswati Vidya Mandir building in Tewagha locality in Kishanganj town.
Education is supposed to guide an individual to become a better person and his goal should be to help others and build a better society, Bhagwat said.
"It's the duty of a person to undertake education in such a manner that it helps one become a better citizen for good of oneself and the society at large," he said.
The RSS chief also spoke on environmental issues and appealed to the people to be sensitive about environment around them by minimizing conflict arising out of development.
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"There is a conflict going on between development and environment," Bhagwat pointed out.
Recalling India's position as an apostle of peace, education and spiritualism, the RSS chief urged people to draw inspiration from the rich heritage and work collective to restore the country's pole position at global level.
"India has retained its position as a world leader by surviving through various difficulties in different ages," he said.
He also asked people to draw pride from the country's rich heritage and work hard so that India continues to shine at global stage for all the years to come.