- “RSS embodies patriotism, service and nation-first spirit,” says PM
NE NATIONAL BUREAU
NEW DELHI, OCT 1
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a symbol of patriotism, service, and national awakening, while addressing its centenary celebrations at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
Marking 100 years since the founding of the Sangh, the Prime Minister released a ₹100 commemorative coin and a special postage stamp honouring the organisation’s contributions to nation-building. The coin features the national emblem and, for the first time in independent India, an image of Bharat Mata, while the stamp recalls the historic moment of RSS swayamsevaks marching in the 1963 Republic Day Parade.
“Since its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has pursued one goal—nation-building. Guided by the principle ‘Nation First,’ it has tirelessly served society and instilled self-respect and social awareness among millions,” the Prime Minister said.
RSS: A Century of Nation-Building
Paying tributes to founder Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, the Prime Minister described the Sangh as a “virtuous incarnation of India’s eternal national consciousness,” adding that it was no coincidence that the RSS was founded on Vijayadashami, a festival symbolising the triumph of justice over injustice.
He stressed that the Sangh’s century-long journey rests on three pillars:
- A grand vision of nation-building
- A clear path of individual development
- The practice of Shakha as a ground of inspiration
“A shakha is where the journey from ‘me’ to ‘we’ begins, where sacrifice becomes natural and teamwork takes root,” he remarked.
Service, Sacrifice, and National Unity
Recalling historical milestones, Modi highlighted the RSS’s role in the freedom struggle, its sacrifices during the Hyderabad Liberation, Goa’s freedom movement, and relief efforts during calamities such as the 1956 Anjar earthquake, 1962 war, the 1971 refugee crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
He also praised swayamsevaks for their unwavering presence during floods, riots, and disasters, affirming:“Enduring hardship to ease the suffering of others defines every Swayamsevak.”
RSS’ Five Transformative Resolutions
The Prime Minister underscored the ‘Panch Parivartan’ (five transformative resolutions) guiding swayamsevaks:
- Self-awareness – pride in heritage, language, and swadeshi
- Social harmony – unity beyond caste, creed, and divisions
- Family enlightenment – nurturing values, empowering women and youth
- Civic discipline – cleanliness, duty, and respect for constitutional ethos
- Environmental consciousness – balancing economy with ecology
“These resolutions,” Shri Modi said, “are vital instruments to confront the challenges of the 21st century and will form the pillars of a developed India by 2047.”
A National Tribute
Describing the RSS as a “mighty banyan tree of service,” the Prime Minister lauded its role in empowering tribal communities, fighting caste-based discrimination, and promoting inclusivity. He recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s praise for the Sangh’s egalitarian spirit and quoted revered Guruji and Balasaheb Deoras, who declared untouchability to be a grave sin.
“The Sangh’s ideal is to deepen the roots of Indian culture, its mission is to amplify India’s voice globally, and its resolve is to secure a radiant future for the nation,” Modi concluded, extending his greetings on Navratri and Vijayadashami.
Union Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale were present, among other dignitaries.
