New Delhi [India]: The nation is paying homage to the great freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 151st birth anniversary today. The day is observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day.
President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan paid floral tributes to Sardar Patel at his statue at Patel Chowk in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the Iron Man of India, saying that Sardar Patel dedicated his life to building a strong, prosperous and capable India.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj also paid floral tributes to the great national leader.
Later, Union Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off the Run for Unity at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium to mark Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Shah said Sardar Patel was a great personality who not only transformed the nation’s history but also shaped its geography. He added that India stands proudly on the global stage today because of the strong foundations laid by Sardar Patel.
Popularly known as the Iron Man of India, Sardar Patel served as the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. He played a historic role in integrating more than 560 princely states to build a united and strong India.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrates his immense contribution to the political integration and unity of the country. The occasion also serves as a reminder of the importance of national unity, integrity, security and harmony in India’s diverse and vibrant society.
Government institutions, schools and colleges are organising unity pledges, cultural programmes and awareness activities across the country to commemorate Sardar Patel’s ideals and legacy. The Run for Unity is also being organised at various places to spread the message of national integration, peace and brotherhood.
[AIR News]