PM Modi Issues ₹100 Commemorative Coin for RSS Centenary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday issued a 100-rupee coin to mark 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsik Sangh (RSS), one of the most influential social and cultural organizations in India. The event was organized in New Delhi with senior RSS leaders, government officials and cultural representatives.
The release of the coin is part of a one-year celebration to honor the centenary of the RSS, which was in 1925 in Nagpur. Keshav was established by Baliram Hedwar. The organization has played a major role in shaping India’s social, cultural and political scenario in the last century.
A historical moment
Unveiling the coin, PM Modi said that the RSS had dedicated itself to nation-building, discipline and social service. He said that over the years, the RSS has become one of the largest volunteer-based organizations in the world, with millions of members working in various fields such as education, rural development, health care and disaster relief.
The Prime Minister said, “The RSS has completed 100 years of service for the nation. The coin is not just a token of memory, but a symbol of the values of dedication, unity and commitment, which stand for the organization.”
The release of a monument coin, according to them, is a way to motivate future generations to continue a sense of service and patriotism.
Features of the Coin
The new ₹100 commemorative coin has been designed by the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited (SPMCIL).
- The coin weighs 35 grams and is made of a silver alloy.
- On one side, it bears the Lion Capital of Ashoka along with the denomination value of ₹100.
- The reverse side features the RSS emblem with the words “Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh – 100 years” inscribed in Hindi and English.
- Decorative motifs have been added around the edges to highlight the cultural and traditional ethos of India.
Officials clarified that this is a commemorative coin meant for collectors and is not intended for everyday circulation. However, it holds legal tender value.
RSS in 100 years
The RSS established in 1925 began as a small group with a vision to unite society on the principles of discipline, service and cultural pride. Today, it has developed in a large network with thousands of local branches, called Shakhas in India and abroad.
The organization has also inspired several affiliated groups, collectively known as the Sangh Parivar, which work in various fields such as labor, education, women empowerment and tribal welfare.
Senior RSS officials present in the coin release said that Shatabdi is not only a celebration, but also time to look at the last hundred years’ journey and plan for the future. He emphasized that the RSS will continue to focus on national integration, character building and social harmony.
Political and social importance
The release of the coin also has a symbolic significance. Over the years, the RSS has had a close relationship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is currently in power under Prime Minister Modi. Many senior BJP leaders including PM Modi started their public life as RSS volunteers.
Analysts see the release of coins as a recognition of the RSS role in shaping modern India. However, critics have raised questions about whether political organizations should be involved in such a memory. Government officials replied that the RSS is registered as a social and cultural organization, and coin celebrates its role in national life rather than politics.
Centenary Celebrations Across India
The coin release is one among many programs being organized as part of the RSS centenary year. Events include:
- Cultural programs showcasing India’s traditional arts, music, and literature.
- Lectures and seminars on topics such as nation-building, education, and service.
- Publications highlighting the history and contributions of the RSS.
- Community service drives, including blood donation camps, health check-ups, and cleanliness campaigns.
Large-scale events are planned in cities like Nagpur, Delhi, Lucknow, and Bengaluru, bringing together RSS volunteers, leaders, and well-wishers from across the country.
Reactions from Different Quarters
The release of the coin has discussed in political and social circles.
The supporters welcomed this decision and said that it is recognized by the contribution of RSS to Indian society. Many people praised the government for honoring an organization that has shaped movements at many ground levels.
However, some opposition leaders questioned whether it was appropriate for the Prime Minister to release a coin, which leaves a coin recalling an organization with political relations. He argued that the government should focus on neutral cultural and historical figures.
Despite the debate, the program attracted the attention of the widespread public, in which thousands of people tuning to watch live broadcasting. The social media platforms were flooded with messages of congratulations from RSS volunteers and leaders.
RSS chief’s message
Mohan Bhagwat, the head of RSS, who participated in the release of the coin, said that the gesture by the government reflected the Recognition of the RSS -century journey.
“This coin is not only about RSS. It is about the values of service, discipline and love for the country. For 100 years, our organization has worked quietly without demanding publicity. This honor is a tribute to all our volunteers who have dedicated their lives to the nation,” he said.
He appealed to the younger generation to carry forward the spirit of responsibility and service in the society.
Conclusion
The release of the RPT 100 monument coin for the RSS century by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is both a symbolic and historical gesture. It accepts the contribution of one of the largest volunteer movements in India, which has played a role in nation-building for a century.
While opinions may differ on the political and cultural aspects, there is no denying that the coin stands as a reminder of the organization’s legacy and its ongoing relevance. As the RSS steps into its next century, the commemorative coin will remain a collectible symbol of its 100-year journey in India’s social and cultural history.
