RSS' Objective Is Nation-Building: PM Modi Celebrates Its Centenary With Commemorative Coin

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the RSS centenary, praising its contributions to nation-building and unveiling a commemorative stamp and coin. He emphasized unity and the importance of the organisation's values.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its enduring dedication to nation-building. He acknowledged the organisation's role in nurturing and empowering numerous individuals over the years. His remarks came during the RSS centenary celebrations held in the national capital.

Highlighting the significance of Vijayadashami, PM Modi noted that the RSS's founding 100 years ago on this day was not coincidental. The festival symbolises triumphs such as good over evil and light over darkness. He emphasised that these values align with the RSS's mission since its inception.

RSS's Founding and Symbolism

PM Modi stated, "Just as human civilisations flourish along the banks of mighty rivers, similarly, hundreds of lives have blossomed and thrived along the banks and in the flow of the RSS. Since its formation, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has pursued a grand objective. That objective has been nation-building."

The Prime Minister paid homage to Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, founder of RSS, acknowledging his commitment to national service. He expressed gratitude for witnessing such a significant milestone as the centenary year of RSS.

Commemorative Coin and Stamp

During this event, PM Modi unveiled a commemorative postage stamp and coin celebrating RSS's contributions to India. The Rs 100 coin features the National Emblem on one side and an image of Bharat Mata on a lion on the other. This marks a first in independent India's currency history.

"... This Rs 100 coin has the National Emblem on one side, and on the other side, there is an image of Bharat Mata, seated on a lion in 'varad mudra', and swayamsevaks bowing down before her with dedication. This is the first time in the history of independent India that an image of Bharat Mata has been shown on our currency... The special postal stamp launched today also has its importance... In 1963, RSS Swayamsevaks also proudly participated in the Republic Day Parade. This postal stamp has an image of that historic moment." PM Modi said.

Unity Within Diversity

The Prime Minister highlighted how various sub-organisations within RSS work harmoniously towards different life aspects without internal conflicts. He stressed that all units share a common goal: prioritising national interests above all else.

"Different organisations within the RSS serve the nation by working for every part of life... The RSS further has many sub-organisations, but no two sub-organisations within the organisation contradict or have divisions with each other. The aim and essence of all the sub-organisations within the RSS is the same- Nation First," PM Modi said.

Established in 1925 by Dr. Hedgewar in Nagpur, Maharashtra, RSS began as a volunteer-based group aiming to promote cultural awareness, discipline, service, and social responsibility among citizens.

He further said, "In 1984, during the Sikh massacre, so many Sikh families took refuge in the homes of RSS Swayamsewaks. This is the nature of the swayamsewaks... Former President Pranab Mukherjee was greatly influenced by the simplicity and dedication of the RSS, when he visited Nagpur. During the floods of Punjab and the tragedies that struck Himachal, Uttarakhand, and Wayanad, swayamsewaks were the first to reach and provide aid. The world saw the courage and service of the RSS during the COVID pandemic."

With inputs from ANI