RSS unveils bold expansion plans in its centenary year
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has announced major expansion plans during its centenary year. At a recent press conference, RSS Kokan Prant Sanghchalak Arjun Chandekar shared updates on growth, outreach, and upcoming events following the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha in Panipat, Haryana.
The RSS now operates 88,949 daily shakhas across India, an increase of around 6,000 from last year's 83,129. These figures were confirmed during the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha held in Samalkha, Haryana, on March 16-17, 2026. Regional growth has also been strong, with the Kokan Prant alone adding an eight per cent rise in shakhas over the past year. Currently, the region hosts 694 daily shakhas, 442 weekly meetings, and 79 monthly gatherings.
In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the organisation runs 258 *shakhas*, along with 155 weekly and 24 monthly sessions. Recent outreach efforts included a door-to-door campaign in January and February, engaging over 3.17 lakh households in Kokan. The RSS also organised Vijayadashami celebrations at 386 locations, drawing more than 43,500 *swayamsevaks* and 59,000 public participants. Looking ahead, the centenary plans feature over 3,100 Hindu *Sammelans*, 147 *Sadbhav* meetings, and 27 public interaction programmes. Chandekar addressed concerns about the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, clarifying that it does not target any specific community. He also dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) recommendation for sanctions, stating that such moves would not hinder the RSS's work.
The RSS continues to expand its presence, with significant growth in daily shakhas and regional activities. Centenary events and outreach campaigns are set to further increase engagement across the country. The organisation remains focused on its objectives despite external criticism.
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