PM releases a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin highlighting the RSS’ contributions to the nation
The founding of the RSS a century ago reflects the enduring spirit of national consciousness that has risen to meet the challenges of every era: PM
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the Chief Guest at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Modi extended greetings to all citizens on the occasion of Navratri, noting that today marks Maha Navami and the day of Goddess Siddhidhatri. He remarked that tomorrow is the grand festival of Vijayadashami, which signifies the timeless proclamation of Indian culture—victory of justice over injustice, truth over falsehood, and light over darkness. The Prime Minister highlighted that on such a sacred occasion, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded a hundred years ago, emphasizing that this was no coincidence. He stated that it was a restoration of an ancient tradition spanning thousands of years, wherein national consciousness manifests in new forms to meet the challenges of each era. In this age, he affirmed, the Sangh is a virtuous incarnation of that eternal national consciousness.
Highlighting that it is a privilege for the current generation of swayamsevaks to witness the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Shri Modi extended his best wishes to the countless swayamsevaks dedicated to the resolve of national service. The Prime Minister paid tribute at the feet of the Sangh’s founder and revered ideal, Dr. Hedgewar. He announced that, to commemorate the Sangh’s glorious 100-year journey, the Government of India has released a special postage stamp and commemorative coin. The ₹100 coin features the national emblem on one side and a majestic image of Bharat Mata in Varad Mudra with a lion, being saluted by swayamsevaks, on the other. Shri Modi highlighted that this is possibly the first time in independent India’s history that Bharat Mata’s image has appeared on Indian currency. He added that the coin also bears the Sangh’s guiding motto: “Rashtraya Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama.”
Underscoring the significance of the commemorative postage stamp released today, noting its deep historical relevance, the Prime Minister recalled the importance of the Republic Day parade on 26th January and highlighted that in 1963, RSS swayamsevaks had participated in the parade with great pride, marching in rhythm to patriotic tunes. He remarked that the stamp captures the memory of that historic moment.
“The commemorative postage stamp also reflects the unwavering dedication of RSS swayamsevaks who continue to serve the nation and empower society”, underlined Shri Modi extending heartfelt congratulations to the citizens of India on the release of these commemorative coins and postage stamp.
Prime Minister remarked that just as great rivers nurture human civilizations along their banks, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has similarly nourished and enriched countless lives. Drawing a parallel between a river that blesses the land, villages, and regions it flows through, and the Sangh, which has touched every domain of Indian society and every region of the nation, Shri Modi emphasized that this is the result of uninterrupted dedication and a powerful national current.
Drawing a parallel between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and a river that branches into multiple streams, each nourishing different regions, the Prime Minister remarked that the Sangh’s journey mirrors this, with its various affiliated organizations engaging in national service across all facets of life—education, agriculture, social welfare, tribal upliftment, women empowerment, arts and sciences, and the labour sector. Shri Modi highlighted that despite the Sangh’s expansion into multiple streams, there has never been division among them. “Each stream, each organization working in diverse fields, shares a singular purpose and sentiment: Nation First”, stressed the Prime Minister.
“Since its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has pursued a grand objective—nation building”, said Shri Modi, emphasising that to fulfill this purpose, the Sangh chose the path of individual development as the foundation for national development. To consistently advance on this path, the Sangh adopted a disciplined working method: the daily and regular conduct of shakhas.
“Revered Dr. Hedgewar understood that the nation would be truly strong only when every citizen awakened to their responsibility towards it; India would rise only when every citizen learns to live for the nation”, remarked the Prime Minister. He said that is why Dr. Hedgewar remained committed to individual development, adopting a unique approach. Shri Modi quoted Dr. Hedgewar’s guiding principle: “Take people as they are, shape them into what they should be.” He likened Dr. Hedgewar’s method of public engagement to that of a potter—starting with ordinary clay, working on it diligently, shaping and firing it, and ultimately using the bricks to build a grand structure. In the same way, Dr. Hedgewar selected ordinary individuals, trained them, gave them vision, and shaped them into dedicated swayamsevaks for the nation. The Prime Minister remarked that this is why it is said about the Sangh that ordinary people come together to accomplish extraordinary and unprecedented tasks.
Highlighting that the noble process of individual development continues to thrive in the shakhas of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Shri Modi described the shakha ground as a sacred space of inspiration, where a swayamsevak begins his journey from “me” to “we” representing the collective spirit. He remarked that these shakhas are the sacrificial altars of character-building, fostering physical, mental, and social growth. The Prime Minister further elaborated that within the Shakhas, the spirit and courage for national service take root, sacrifice and dedication become natural, the urge for personal credit fades, and swayamsevaks imbibe the values of collective decision-making and teamwork.
Emphasising that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s hundred-year journey has been anchored in three foundational pillars—a grand vision of nation building, a clear path of individual development, and a simple yet dynamic working method in the form of shakhas, Shri Modi stated that standing on these pillars, the Sangh has shaped lakhs of swayamsevaks who are advancing the nation across diverse fields through dedication, service, and a committed pursuit of national excellence.
Affirming that since its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has aligned its priorities with those of the nation, Shri Modi stated that in every era, the Sangh has confronted the major challenges facing the country. Recalling the freedom struggle, he noted that revered Dr. Hedgewar and many other karyakartas actively participated in the independence movement, with Dr. Hedgewar even facing imprisonment multiple times. The Prime Minister highlighted that the Sangh supported numerous freedom fighters, working shoulder to shoulder with them. He cited the 1942 movement in Chimur, where many swayamsevaks endured severe British atrocities. Post-independence, he remarked, the Sangh continued its sacrifices—from resisting the Nizam’s oppression in Hyderabad to contributing to the liberation of Goa and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Throughout, the guiding sentiment remained “Nation First,” and the unwavering goal was “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Acknowledging that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has faced attacks and conspiracies throughout its journey of national service, Shri Modi recalled how, even after independence, attempts were made to suppress the Sangh and prevent its integration into the mainstream. He highlighted that revered Guruji was falsely implicated and sent to jail. Yet, upon his release, Guruji responded with profound composure, stating, “Sometimes the tongue gets caught under the teeth and is crushed. But we do not break the teeth, because both the teeth and the tongue are ours.” The Prime Minister emphasized that despite enduring severe torture and various forms of oppression, Guruji harbored no resentment or ill will. He described Guruji’s sage-like personality and ideological clarity as a guiding light for every swayamsevak, strengthening the values of unity and empathy towards society. He affirmed that whether faced with bans, conspiracies, or false cases, swayamsevaks never gave space to bitterness, because they understood that they are not separate from society—society is made of them. What is good belongs to them, and what is less good also belongs to them.
Highlighting that one of the key reasons the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has never harbored bitterness is the unwavering faith of every swayamsevak in democracy and constitutional institutions, the Prime Minister recalled that during the Emergency, this very belief empowered swayamsevaks and gave them the strength to resist. He emphasized that these two core values—oneness with society and faith in constitutional institutions—have kept swayamsevaks composed in every crisis and sensitive towards societal needs. Despite facing numerous challenges over time, the Sangh stands firm like a mighty banyan tree, continuously serving the nation and society.
Shri Modi stated that from its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been synonymous with patriotism and service. He recalled that during the painful period of Partition, when millions of families were displaced, swayamsevaks stood at the forefront with limited resources to serve the refugees. He emphasized that this was not merely relief work—it was an act of strengthening the soul of the nation.
The Prime Minister further highlighted the devastating earthquake that struck Anjar in Gujarat in 1956, describing the widespread destruction. Even then, swayamsevaks were actively engaged in relief and rescue operations. He mentioned that revered Guruji had written a letter to Vakil Saheb, the then head of the Sangh in Gujarat, stating that to selflessly endure hardship for alleviating another’s suffering is the mark of a noble heart.
“The enduring hardship to alleviate the suffering of others is the hallmark of every swayamsevak”, described Shri Modi, recalling the 1962 war, when RSS swayamsevaks stood tirelessly to support the armed forces, boosted their morale, and extended aid to villages near the border. The PM further highlighted the 1971 crisis, when millions of refugees from East Pakistan arrived in India without shelter or resources. During that difficult time, swayamsevaks mobilized food, provided shelter, delivered healthcare services, wiped their tears, and shared in their pain. Shri Modi added that the swayamsevaks also gave shelter to many Sikhs during the 1984 riots.
Recalling that former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was deeply astonished by the service activities he witnessed at Nanaji Deshmukh’s ashram in Chitrakoot, Shri Modi also mentioned that former President Pranab Mukherjee was greatly impressed by the discipline and simplicity of the Sangh during his visit to Nagpur.
The Prime Minister highlighted that even today, in calamities such as the floods in Punjab, disasters in Himachal and Uttarakhand, and the tragedy in Wayanad, Kerala, swayamsevaks are among the first responders. He affirmed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the entire world witnessed the Sangh’s courage and spirit of service firsthand.
Emphasising that one of the most significant contributions of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over its 100-year journey has been awakening self-awareness and pride among diverse sections of society, the Prime Minister noted that the Sangh has consistently worked in the most remote and inaccessible regions of the country, especially among India’s nearly ten crore tribal brothers and sisters. While successive governments often overlooked these communities, the Sangh prioritized their culture, festivals, languages, and traditions. Organizations like Seva Bharati, Vidya Bharati, and Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram have emerged as pillars of tribal empowerment. Shri Modi affirmed that the growing self-confidence among tribal communities today is transforming their lives.
Expressing deep appreciation for the lakhs of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers working tirelessly to improve the lives of tribal communities in India’s remotest corners, Shri Modi affirmed that their dedication has played a vital role in preserving the nation’s cultural identity. The PM acknowledged the challenges and exploitative campaigns that have historically targeted tribal regions, and emphasized that the Sangh has silently and steadfastly offered its sacrifice and fulfilled its duty for decades to protect the nation from such crises.
Prime Minister remarked that deep-rooted social ailments such as caste-based discrimination and regressive practices have long posed a serious challenge to Hindu society. He highlighted that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has consistently worked to address this concern. Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to a Sangh camp in Wardha, the Prime Minister noted that Gandhiji openly praised the Sangh’s spirit of equality, compassion, and harmony. He stated that from Dr. Hedgewar to the present day, every eminent figure and Sarsanghchalak of the Sangh has fought against discrimination and untouchability. Shri Modi emphasized that revered Guruji continuously advanced the sentiment of “Na Hindu Patito Bhavet,” meaning every Hindu is part of one family and none is inferior or fallen. He quoted Pujya Balasaheb Deoras, who said, “If untouchability is not a sin, then nothing in the world is.” He added that during their tenure as Sarsanghchalak, Pujya Rajju Bhaiya and Pujya Sudarshan Ji also carried forward this sentiment. The Prime Minister stated that the current Sarsanghchalak, Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji, has set a clear goal before society for social harmony, encapsulated in the vision of “one well, one temple, and one cremation ground.” He affirmed that the Sangh has taken this message to every corner of the country, promoting a society free of discrimination, division, and discord. This, he said, is the foundation of harmony and the resolve for an inclusive society, which the Sangh continues to strengthen with renewed vigour.
Shri Modi remarked that when the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded a century ago, the needs and struggles of the time were different. India was striving to break free from centuries of political subjugation and to safeguard its cultural values. He stated that today, as India moves towards becoming a developed nation and is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy, the challenges have evolved. A large section of the population is overcoming poverty, new sectors are creating opportunities for youth, and India is asserting its voice globally—from diplomacy to climate policies. He highlighted that today’s challenges include economic dependence on other nations, conspiracies to disrupt national unity, and demographic manipulation. As Prime Minister, he expressed satisfaction that the government is swiftly addressing these issues. As a swayamsevak, he also expressed pride that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has not only identified these challenges but has also formulated a concrete roadmap to confront them.
Highlighting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s five transformative resolutions—self-awareness, social harmony, family enlightenment, civic discipline, and environmental consciousness—as powerful inspirations for swayamsevaks to confront the challenges facing the nation, Shri Modi elaborated that self-awareness means liberation from the mindset of servitude and taking pride in one’s heritage and native language. He emphasized that self-awareness also signifies embracing swadeshi. He asserted that self-reliance is no longer an option but a necessity. The Prime Minister called upon society to adopt the mantra of swadeshi as a collective resolve and urged everyone to dedicate their full energy towards making the “Vocal for Local” campaign a resounding success.
“The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has consistently prioritized social harmony”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, defining social harmony as establishing social justice by giving precedence to the marginalized and strengthening national unity. Shri Modi highlighted that the nation today faces challenges that directly target its unity, culture, and security—ranging from separatist ideologies and regionalism to disputes over caste and language, and divisive tendencies incited by external forces. The PM affirmed that India’s soul has always been rooted in “unity in diversity,” and warned that if this principle is broken, India’s strength will be diminished. Therefore, he stressed the need to continuously reinforce this foundational ethos.
Prime Minister stated that social harmony today faces a grave challenge from demographic manipulation and infiltration, which directly impacts internal security and future peace. He emphasized that this concern led him to announce the Demography Mission from the Red Fort. He called for vigilance and resolute action to confront this threat.
Shri Modi further highlighted that family enlightenment is the need of the hour. He defined it as nurturing the family culture that forms the foundation of Indian civilization and is inspired by Indian values. He stressed the importance of upholding family principles, respecting elders, empowering women, instilling values in youth, and fulfilling responsibilities towards one’s family. He underscored the urgent need to raise awareness in both families and society on this front.
Highlighting that in every era, nations that progressed did so with a strong foundation of civic discipline, the Prime Minister emphasized that civic discipline means cultivating a sense of duty and ensuring that every citizen is aware of their responsibilities. He called for promoting cleanliness, respecting national assets, and upholding laws and regulations. Shri Modi affirmed that it is the spirit of the Constitution that citizens fulfill their duties, and this constitutional ethos must be continuously strengthened.
The Prime Minister further highlighted that protecting the environment is essential for both present and future generations, and is directly linked to the future of humanity. He stressed the need to focus not only on the economy but also on ecology. Campaigns such as water conservation, green energy, and clean energy are vital steps in this direction.
“The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s five transformative resolutions—self-awareness, social harmony, family enlightenment, civic discipline, and environmental consciousness—are vital instruments that will enhance the nation’s strength, help India confront diverse challenges, and serve as foundational pillars for building a developed India by 2047”, exclaimed the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister stated that India in 2047 will be a glorious nation shaped by philosophy and science, service and social harmony. He affirmed that this is the vision of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the collective pursuit of all swayamsevaks, and their solemn resolve. He reminded the nation that the Sangh was built on unwavering faith in the nation, driven by a deep spirit of service, forged in the fire of sacrifice and penance, refined through values and discipline, and stands firm by considering national duty as the supreme duty of life. He added that the Sangh is intrinsically linked to the grand dream of serving Bharat Mata.
“The Sangh’s ideal is to deepen and strengthen the roots of Indian culture. Its effort is to instill self-confidence and pride in society. Its goal is to ignite the flame of public service in every heart. Its vision is for Indian society to become a symbol of social justice. Its mission is to amplify India’s voice on the global stage. Its resolve is to ensure a secure and radiant future for the nation”, remarked Shri Modi and concluded by extending his congratulations to all on this historic occasion.
Union Minister of Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekawat, Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt Rekha Gupta, Sarkaryavah(General Secretary) of RSS, Shri Dattatreya Hosabale were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
As part of the centenary celebrations of RSS, Prime Minister released a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin highlighting the RSS’ contributions to the nation.
Founded in 1925 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS was established as a volunteer-based organization with the goal of fostering cultural awareness, discipline, service, and social responsibility among citizens.
RSS is a unique people-nurtured movement for national reconstruction. Its rise has been seen as a response to centuries of foreign rule, with its continuing growth attributed to the emotional resonance of its vision of India’s national glory, rooted in Dharma.
A core emphasis of the Sangh is on patriotism and national character formation. It seeks to instil devotion to the motherland, discipline, self-restraint, courage, and heroism. The Sangh’s ultimate goal is the “Sarvangeena Unnati” (all-round development) of India, to which every Swayamsevak dedicates himself.
Over the past century, RSS has played a significant role in education, health, social welfare, and disaster relief. RSS volunteers have actively participated in relief and rehabilitation efforts during natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. In addition, various affiliated organizations of the RSS have contributed to empowering youth, women, and farmers, promoting public participation, and strengthening local communities.
The centenary celebrations not only honour the historical achievements of the RSS, but also highlight its enduring contributions to India’s cultural journey and its message of national unity.
