In a recent event in Lucknow, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reflected on the remarkable journey of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which was founded almost 100 years ago in a modest room with just five to seven members. Singh emphasized that few could have anticipated that the RSS would evolve over the century into the world’s largest organisation.
Describing this achievement as a “divine blessing,” Singh also linked the RSS's growth with the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the world’s largest political party. According to him, this transformation was driven by many individuals living exemplary lives akin to sages or ascetics, demonstrating commitment and discipline.
Singh further remarked on India’s impressive economic progress, noting that the country climbed from being the 11th largest economy in 2014 to the fourth today under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Economic experts predict that India could become the third-largest economy within the next two to three years, underscoring a phase of rapid national advancement.
Addressing the BJP cadre, Singh expressed his intent to maintain close contact with party workers, underscoring a spirit of shared responsibility and humility. He reminded them that every organisation operates through a system where roles and responsibilities vary but no member is bigger or smaller — everyone has the potential to be number one in their domain.
Key highlights from Rajnath Singh’s address include:
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RSS originated nearly a century ago with just a handful of members.
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It has grown into the world’s largest organisation by member base.
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BJP, connected ideologically with RSS, is the world’s largest political party.
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India’s economic rank improved from 11th in 2014 to 4th in 2025.
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Economic forecasts suggest India will be the third largest economy soon.
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Emphasis on collective effort and equal importance of all members in an organisation.
This reflective address spotlights the RSS's centenary as a significant milestone not only for the organisation but also for India’s broader socio-political and economic narrative. It highlights a century-long journey marked by ideological commitment, volunteerism, and national growth aspirations.
Source: Press Trust of India (PTI), The Print, Millennium Post, AajTak