India celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This year is special as it coincides with the 150th birth anniversary of Patel, with major events at Ekta Nagar near the Statue of Unity.
About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
- Iron Man of India: Known for his strong leadership and firm decisions in nation-building.
- Role in Integration: United more than 560 princely states after Independence to form one united India.
- First Home Minister: Strengthened internal security, administration, and civil services (helped create the modern IAS/IPS structure).
- Believer in Unity & Discipline: Promoted national unity, harmony and believed that strong discipline builds a strong nation.
- Served as India’s First Deputy Prime Minister: After Independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel became the first Deputy Prime Minister of India and also handled the Home portfolio.
Patel’s Idea of Unity
- Unity without uniformity — India united by shared identity but respecting local cultures.
- Believed in a federation of hearts and minds, not forced sameness.
- Used realism, diplomacy, and firmness to prevent fragmentation post-Partition.
Examples
- Smooth integration of princely states like Junagarh, Hyderabad, Jammu & Kashmir into India.
National Unity Day
- Declared in 2014 to honour Patel and remind citizens that unity needs continuous effort.
- Activities: Run for Unity, pledge ceremonies, cultural events nationwide.
Culture as a Tool of National Integration
- India’s diversity is its strength; culture connects people more deeply than politics.
- Ministry of Culture works to democratize heritage so every region feels represented.
- Example: Students in Maharashtra learning Bihu or Assamese artists performing Lavani in Pune builds mutual respect and understanding.
- Tourism & Unity: Tourism helps Indians understand each other’s traditions and lifestyles.
Major Schemes
Scheme | Focus |
Dekho Apna Desh | Promote domestic travel |
Incredible India | Digital tourism promotion |
Swadesh Darshan / PRASHAD | Tourism circuits + pilgrimage infrastructure |
- Impact: 2024 saw 294 crore domestic tourist visits, boosting cultural exchange and local income.
Relevance of Patel’s Vision Today
- Unity requires daily commitment against regionalism, ignorance, and division.
- Government’s Panch-Pran for 2047 includes pledge for national solidarity.
Conclusion:
True tribute to Sardar Patel lies not just in statues or ceremonies, but in living his vision — ensuring every citizen feels part of one national family. Cultural exchanges, travel, heritage awareness, and civic participation strengthen the invisible threads that hold India together.
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