PM PAYS TRIBUTE TO SARDAR VALLABHBHAI PATEL

New Delhi, Oct 31, 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity in Narmada, Gujarat, on Friday. The day, observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), honours the legacy of the Iron Man of India who united over 560 princely states to form a united nation.

The Prime Minister participated in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade and administered the national unity pledge, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to integrity and internal security. “I solemnly swear that I will dedicate myself to the preservation of the unity, integrity, and security of the nation… I take this oath in the spirit of my country’s unity, made possible by the foresight and hard work of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel,” he said.

Earlier, in a post on X, PM Modi recalled Sardar Patel’s model of shaping modern India.“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,” he wrote on X.

President Droupadi Murmu also paid tribute to Sardar Patel at Gantantra Mandap, Rashtrapati Bhavan, describing him as a “great patriot, visionary leader, and nation-builder.” In her post, she said, “On the birth anniversary of ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all my fellow citizens. His dedication and spirit of national service serve as an inspiration to us all. Let us unite and resolve to build a strong, harmonious, and excellent India.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, “I bow in reverence, on behalf of a grateful nation, to the Iron Man of India — Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — the symbol of national unity, integrity, and the empowerment of farmers.” He added that Sardar Patel strengthened the unity and security of the nation through the integration of princely states and his leadership of the cooperative movement, which empowered farmers and the underprivileged.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also paid homage to Sardar Patel and extended greetings to the people on the occasion of National Unity Day. He said Sardar Patel’s diplomacy, foresight, and dedication played a crucial role in building a united and empowered India.

Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel began his career as a lawyer before joining the freedom struggle under Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership. He rose to prominence during the Kheda Satyagraha of 1918, marking the beginning of his journey in public service.

After Independence, Patel oversaw the integration of 565 princely states into the Indian Union — a task considered one of the most remarkable achievements in India’s modern history. He passed away on December 15, 1950, leaving behind a legacy of unity and nation-building.

Since 2014, his birth anniversary has been celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, with nationwide events such as the Run for Unity promoting the values of cohesion and national integrity.