Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is an organisation dedicated to building character and strengthening the nation, adding that it teaches people to move from ‘I’ to ‘We’.

At the centenary celebrations of the RSS held at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre in Delhi, he said, “The way human communities live on the banks of a river, just like that, many lives have flourished with the stream of Sangh. Sangh has touched on every aspect of this country.”

He explained that although the RSS has many sub-organisations, they all follow the same principle of putting the nation first. “The RSS has many sub-organisations, but all are united in one purpose — ‘Rashtriya Pratham’ (Nation First). No two sub-organisations contradict or conflict with each other,” he said.

Talking about the vision of its founder, Dr K.B. Hedgewar, the Prime Minister said, “Our nation would only become empowered when every Indian citizen developed a sense of responsibility towards the nation. That is why he always engaged in individuals’ development.”

PM Modi described the RSS as “an organisation of inspiration”, where the journey of every volunteer begins with self and moves towards collective service. He said the shakhas play a central role, calling them “sacred platforms for character development”, and added, “Within these shakhas, an individual undergoes physical, mental and social growth. A strong sense of national service and courage steadily blossoms in the hearts of swayamsevaks.”

He also paid tribute to Dr Hedgewar and the Sangh’s role in the freedom struggle. “Dr Hedgewar himself was imprisoned in Nagpur Jail. The Sangh continued to support numerous freedom fighters, standing shoulder to shoulder with them in their struggle,” he said. Modi also pointed out that the organisation faced attacks and conspiracies even after Independence, but it stood firm and did not let those challenges overpower it.

Marking the 100th year of the RSS, the Prime Minister released a special postage stamp and a Rs 100 silver coin. Sharing its importance, he said, “In the Rs 100 coin, on one side is the National Emblem and on the other side, Bharat Mata’s Varada Mudra image along with that of a lion and Swayamsevak bowing down to her with all 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 coin features Bharat Mata with three swayamsevaks saluting her on one side and the Lion Capitol of the Ashoka Pillar on the other. Modi said the design reflects the traditional scene at Sangh events where volunteers bow to Bharat Mata.

The postage stamp also carries historical significance. “The special postal stamp launched today also has its importance. We know the significance of the parade during the Republic Day celebrations. In 1963, Sangh’s Swayamsevaks also proudly participated in the Republic Day Parade. This postal stamp has an image of that historic moment,” he said.

RSS marched at the Republic Day Parade at the invitation of the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who had acknowledged the service of RSS volunteers during the 1962 India-China war. Modi said it remains a proud moment for the organisation as it symbolises national service and dedication.

The event was attended by RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.