October 31st, India celebrates National Unity Day to honor the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in the nation’s independence movement and its first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Known as the “Iron Man of India,” Patel was instrumental in uniting the country’s diverse princely states into a single, independent nation.
Overview of National Unity Day
- Date: Observed annually on October 31st.
- Significance: Commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key leader in India’s independence struggle and the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
- Purpose: Serves as a reminder of Patel’s efforts to unite India’s diverse princely states into a single nation, promoting a spirit of national unity and solidarity.
Highlights of the Ekta Diwas Parade
Participants
- 16 marching contingents from nine States and one Union Territory, along with contingents from four Central Armed Police Forces, NCC, and a marching band.
Special Attractions
- Hell March by the National Security Guard (NSG)
- Daredevil Biking Show: Performed by men and women bikers from the BSF and CRPF.
- Martial Arts Display: Featuring Indian martial arts by the BSF.
- Piped Band Performance: By school children, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere.
- Surya Kiran Flypast: A spectacular aerial show by the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran aerobatic team.
Key Messages of National Unity Day
- Reinforces the importance of unity amidst diversity in India.
- Honors Sardar Patel’s leadership and his role in shaping modern India.
- Encourages citizens to uphold the spirit of togetherness and strengthen the bonds of unity across the country.
Tribute by PM Narendra Modi in 2024
- Location : PM Modi paid tribute at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.
- Ceremonial Tribute : He participated in a wreath-laying ceremony, Unity Oath, and the grand Unity Day Parade.
- Message on X : “My salutations to Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary. Protecting the unity and sovereignty of the nation was the top priority of his life. His personality and work will continue to inspire every generation of the country.”
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Legacy
- Born: October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat.
- A prominent leader in India’s freedom movement and close ally of Mahatma Gandhi.
- Known as the “Iron Man of India” for his strong resolve and dedication to unification.
Key Contributions
- Served as India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister from 1947 to 1950.
- Instrumental in uniting 562 princely states to form a cohesive and independent India.
- His work ensured the preservation of India’s sovereignty and laid the foundation for a unified nation.