Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the world’s largest non-governmental organisation, commending its century-long legacy of nation-building and selfless service.
Delivering his Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Prime Minister paid tribute to generations of RSS volunteers, praising their enduring contributions to the country’s development.
The Prime Minister said that the RSS has devoted the past 100 years to man-making and nation-building and its extensive work through various affiliated bodies across sectors stands as a testament to its commitment and will continue to inspire generations to come.
“I want to proudly mention that the RSS was born 100 years ago today. It is the world’s largest NGO that’s known for its service, dedication, and discipline. Nation is proud of RSS’ 100-year journey,” said PM Modi in his speech.
Describing the Sangh as the ideological wellspring of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, PM Modi — a former full-time pracharak (volunteer) himself — celebrated the RSS as it marks its centenary year.
He highlighted the core values that have guided the organisation since its inception: Seva (Service), Samarpan (Sacrifice), Sangathan (Organisation First), and Anushasan (Discipline).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought his signature sartorial flair as he continued his ‘safa’ tradition and wore a saffron turban to mark the 79th Independence Day celebrations.
The Prime Minister paired the striking ‘narangi’ turban with a white kurta, churidar and a saffron bandhgala jacket, complemented by a tricolour stole as he addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the 12th consecutive year.
In his address to the nation, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of “Har Ghar Tiranga,” paid tribute to India’s constitutional architects, honored armed forces, and emphasized self-reliance across defense, technology, and energy.
PM Modi began by recalling the unseen potential of 1947 and the challenges India faced for independence. He cited Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and the vision of India’s founding constitutional leaders such as Dr Rajendra Prasad, BR Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and the role of women in shaping India.
PM Modi lauded Operation Sindoor, saluting the bravery of soldiers who punished the enemy in strategic operations, including responses to the Pahalgam attack.
The Prime Minister underscored India’s determination to respond to nuclear threats and terrorism, stating that those sponsoring terrorism will no longer be considered separate from the enemy of humanity. PM Modi said that by this India established a ‘new normal order’, and years of nuclear blackmail won’t be tolerated.
He also addressed the recent Uttarkashi tragedy, emphasizing coordinated rescue and rehabilitation efforts by the state and central governments.
PM Modi also highlighted the importance of self-reliance across imports, exports, and domestic capability, emphasizing that Operation Sindoor showcased “Made in India” power in the hands of the Indian Army.
The PM delivered a 103-minute Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the longest by any prime minister in India’s history.
