Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (October 1, 2025) unveiled a commemorative ₹100 coin and postage stamp to celebrate 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS). Speaking at the launch held at Delhi’s Ambedkar International Centre, the Prime Minister hailed the RSS as the embodiment of “timeless national consciousness” and underlined its continued role in shaping India’s future.
First-ever appearance of Bharat Mata on Indian currency
The newly released coin carries significant symbolism. One side displays the national emblem, while the reverse side showcases an image of Bharat Mata in Varad Mudra, representing blessings, with swayamsevaks saluting alongside a lion. The coin also features the RSS motto: “Rashtraya Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama.” PM Modi noted that this marks the first time Bharat Mata has appeared on Indian currency since independence.
RSS: A century of service
Tracing the Sangh’s history, PM Modi recalled that the RSS was founded a century ago on Vijayadashami by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, who, along with many swayamsevaks, actively participated in the freedom struggle. He also pointed out that despite “conspiracies” to malign the organisation, including false cases against the second Sarsanghchalak M.S. Golwalkar, the Sangh remained steadfast in its faith in the Constitution and its commitment to society.
“From helping refugees during partition to being first responders in crises, swayamsevaks have always stood with the nation, even with limited resources,” the Prime Minister said. He described the RSS path as “Vyakti nirmaan se rashtra nirmaan” (nation-building through character-building), highlighting the daily shakha as a transformative space where individuals evolve from “Me to We.”
Sangh’s impact across sectors
Comparing the RSS to a river that nourishes every region it flows through, PM Modi emphasised the organisation’s broad presence in fields like education, agriculture, social welfare, women empowerment, tribal development, arts, sciences, and labour. He lauded affiliates such as Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Vidya Bharti, Sewa Bharti, and Ekal Vidyalaya for their work in remote tribal areas, preserving traditions and promoting unity.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the Sangh’s call to fight social evils such as caste discrimination and untouchability, reiterating the vision of “one well, one temple, one cremation ground” to promote equality and cohesion.
Facing future challenges
Looking ahead, PM Modi identified new challenges India faces — including reliance on foreign powers, efforts to divide social unity, and demographic shifts due to infiltration. He said the RSS has prepared a clear roadmap called Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations) to meet these challenges. This framework calls for fostering self-awareness, promoting social harmony with focus on the marginalised, strengthening family and cultural values, instilling civic sense, and safeguarding the environment.
“With these resolutions, the Sangh now begins its next century. As India marches towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, the role of the RSS will remain crucial,” PM Modi declared.
Centenary celebrations
The RSS centenary coincides with Vijayadashami and Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. On the occasion, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will deliver the keynote address, with former President Ram Nath Kovind attending as the chief guest.