New Delhi, Oct 31 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday led the nation in paying tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat. Marking Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), PM Modi paid floral tributes to the Iron Man of India and participated in the unity parade led by women personnel under the command of IPS officer Simran Bhardwaj of the Gujarat cadre.
Addressing thousands gathered at the event, PM Modi administered the oath of unity, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to preserve its integrity and security. “I solemnly swear that I will dedicate myself to the preservation of the unity, integrity, and security of the nation… made possible by the foresight and hard work of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel,” the Prime Minister said.
In a heartfelt post on social media, PM Modi wrote, “India pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th Jayanti. He was the driving force behind India’s integration, thus shaping our nation’s destiny in its formative years. His unwavering commitment to national integrity, good governance, and public service continues to inspire generations.”
Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel—India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister—played a monumental role in uniting over 560 princely states after Independence, laying the foundation of a united India.
President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage at Sardar Patel Chowk in New Delhi and offered floral tributes at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In her message, she said, “Sardar Patel was a great patriot, visionary leader, and nation-builder who unified the country through his unwavering resolve and adept leadership. On this Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, let us unite to build a strong, harmonious, and prosperous India.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute at the Statue of Unity, describing Patel as “a symbol of national integrity and the empowerment of farmers.” He said Sardar Patel’s vision of uniting princely states and promoting self-reliance continues to guide India’s governance and development.
Tributes also poured in from leaders across the country, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who paid floral respects at Sardar Patel’s statue in the national capital.
The day’s celebrations reaffirmed Sardar Patel’s enduring legacy as the architect of India’s unity and strength a vision symbolically reflected in the towering Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue.