RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat calls GDP an 'imperfect' metric for economic growth: 'Doesn't consider intangible contributions'

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat at centenary event in Mumbai on Saturday

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on February 8 said the gross domestic production is an “imperfect criterion” to measure economic growth and it needs to consider both tangible and intangible contributions to calculate India’s real growth.

Bhagwat claimed that a strong rupee and country’s economic growth cannot just depend upon tangible contributions such as sale and purchase.

“I don't know the link between GDP and rupee. Rupee depends on the ratio between import and export. It also depends on the economic situation but I don't think the GDP captures the economic landscape correctly,” he said during an event in Mumbai to mark it’s 100th year in existence.

“(GDP) It is an imperfect criterion. It is our job to make it perfect. GDP only calculates what is tangible. In western nations, they buy canned food from the market and eat it for their meals. So, the sale and purchase of such goods is captured in GDP,” Bhagwat claimed.

The RSS chief said that mothers cook and feed their children in India, but their efforts are not captured in the GDP.

“In India, our mothers cook food for us, which is not captured by GDP. It doesn't either calculate their efforts or the food that they feed us. So, how will everything come into the GDP. In reality, our self-reliance and high production of goods will ensure a good economic situation for the country,” he said. “When this will be achieved, our economic situation will be better and whatever be the GDP, the rupee will rise again.”