RSS Centenary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that from its inception, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) 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 emphasised that this was not merely relief work; it was also an act of strengthening the soul of the nation.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of the RSS in New Delhi today, the Prime Minister emphasised that one of the most significant contributions of the RSS over its 100-year journey has been awakening self-awareness and pride among diverse sections of society. Mr Modi noted that RSS has consistently worked in the most remote and inaccessible regions of the country, especially among India’s nearly ten crore tribal brothers and sisters.
He mentioned, while successive governments often overlooked these communities, the Sangh prioritised their culture, festivals, languages, and traditions. The Prime Minister remarked that the organisation has consistently prioritised social harmony. Mr 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. Saying that India’s soul has always been rooted in “unity in diversity”, the Prime Minister warned if this principle is broken, India’s strength will be diminished. He stressed the need to continuously reinforce this foundational ethos.
The Prime Minister also 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 Prime Minister said RSS volunteers have been tirelessly devoted to serving the nation and empowering society. The Prime Minister recalled that RSS volunteers also participated and proudly marched in the Republic Day parade in 1963. On this occasion, the Prime Minister also released a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin highlighting the RSS’s contributions to the nation.
Mr Modi said, Tomorrow is Vijayadashmi, a festival which symbolises the victory of good over evil, the victory of justice over injustice, the victory of truth over falsehoods, and the victory of light over darkness.
Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the RSS ignited the spirit of nation-building and cultural awareness among the people. RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale said that the works and activities of RSS can be witnessed in every corner of the country. He said the society is aware of the different types of works undertaken by the organisation. He added that the volunteers of the organisation are actively engaged in various activities related to social development, national service, security, and welfare, while binding societies.
