The RSS has started a massive exercise to expand its base by providing basic combat training to youths in Madhya Pradesh. The first such camp was held in Jabalpur’s Shiram Engineering College on Saturday. As many as 600 volunteers were made to clear fire and water obstacles and wriggle through tunnels to test their physical fitness. The volunteers divided into two teams named after Shivaji and Maharana Pratap took part in mock fights without weapons.The two-day camp called the Sangh Sashakitkaran Shibir (RSS Empowerment Camp), ended on Sunday. The Sangh plans to organise similar camps in 26 districts of the state over the next few weeks.The RSS, however, denied the exercise had anything to do with the recent terror attacks and the consequent clamour for war. However, its leaders admitted that such a big camp was last organised in 1986. “We want to expand our base and have one unit in every 10 villages,” RSS functionary Narendra Jain said. The Sangh always organises camps that focus on physical training but they hardly come to light, Jain said. However, the RSS this time made it a point to invite local television channels to ensure that the programme got the maximum coverage.
