Remembering Sardar Patel on His Death Anniversary

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the “Iron Man of India,” played an instrumental role in India’s freedom struggle and the integration of the country after independence. As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India, his efforts in uniting the princely states and his contributions to the freedom movement were crucial for India’s sovereignty and unity.

Early Life and Education:

• Born: October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat.
• Family: Father – Zaverbhai Patel (served in the Army of Queen of Jhansi), Mother – Ladbai (spiritual).
• Education: Studied law and became a barrister in England.
• Returned to India and practiced law in Ahmedabad.

Role in India’s Freedom Struggle

Kheda Satyagraha (1918)

• Led by Gandhi, Patel played a pivotal role in mobilizing farmers to protest against high taxes imposed by the British amidst crop failures.

Bardoli Satyagraha (1928)

• Protest against tax hikes during famine and floods; awarded the title “Sardar” for his leadership.

Quit India Movement (1942)

• Despite health issues, Patel encouraged mass protests against British rule, and was arrested in August 1942.

Key Political Contributions

Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister

• Served as India’s first Home Minister and Deputy PM post-independence.
• Played a key role in the political integration of India after independence.

Integration of Princely States

• Managed the integration of over 500 princely states into the Union of India, including states like Jammu & Kashmir and Hyderabad, which initially resisted joining.
• Formed a new department to manage the integration process, led by Patel with V.P. Menon as secretary.

Death and Legacy

• Date of Death: December 15, 1950, due to a heart attack.
• National Unity Day: His birthday, October 31st, was declared Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) in 2014.

Posthumous Recognition

• Awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1991 for his unparalleled contribution to the country.

Tribute by PM Modi

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his death anniversary.
• Modi described Patel as an inspiration for the country, emphasizing his contributions to national unity and integrity.
• Lauded Patel as the “Iron Man” for his strong leadership in uniting India.