Ahmedabad, October 31
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme in Kevadia, Gujarat today. Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister remarked that the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel is a historic occasion. Describing the morning in Ekta Nagar as divine and the panoramic view as awe-inspiring, Shri Modi noted the collective presence at the feet of Sardar Patel and stated that the nation is witnessing a moment of great significance. He highlighted the nationwide Run for Unity and the enthusiastic participation of crores of Indians and emphasized that the resolve of New India is being tangibly felt. Referring to the events held earlier and the remarkable presentation from the previous evening, the Prime Minister observed that they reflected the traditions of the past, the labour and valour of the present, and a glimpse of future accomplishments. He informed that a commemorative coin and a special postal stamp have been released to mark Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. The Prime Minister extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all 140 crore citizens of the country on the occasion of Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
Prime Minister Modi stated that Sardar Patel believed time should not be wasted in writing history; instead, efforts should be made to create history. He emphasized that this conviction is evident throughout Sardar Patel’s life story, highlighting that the policies and decisions taken by Sardar Patel created a new chapter in history. He recalled how Sardar Patel accomplished the seemingly impossible task of integrating over 550 princely states after independence. The idea of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ was paramount for Sardar Patel. Modi noted that this is why Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary has naturally become a grand festival of national unity. Just as 140 crore Indians celebrate Independence Day on 15th August and Republic Day on 26th January, the significance of Ekta Diwas has now reached a similar stature. He informed that today, crores of people have taken the pledge of unity and resolved to promote actions that strengthen the unity of the nation. He added that in Ekta Nagar itself, the Ekta Mall and Ekta Garden stand as symbols reinforcing the thread of unity.
“Every action which weakens the unity of the nation must be avoided by every citizen”, emphasised the Prime Minister, stressing that this is the need of the hour and the core message of Ekta Diwas for every Indian. He highlighted that Sardar Patel placed the sovereignty of the nation above all else. However, he expressed regret that in the years following Sardar Patel’s demise, successive governments did not demonstrate the same seriousness towards national sovereignty. He pointed to the mistakes made in Kashmir, the challenges in the Northeast, and the spread of Naxal-Maoist terrorism across the country as direct threats to India’s sovereignty. The Prime Minister remarked that instead of following Sardar Patel’s policies, the governments of that era chose a spineless approach, the consequences of which were borne by the nation in the form of violence and bloodshed.
Pointing out that many in today’s younger generation may not be aware that Sardar Patel wished for the complete integration of Kashmir, just as he had successfully merged other princely states, Modi stated that however the then Prime Minister did not allow this wish to be fulfilled.
Criticizing the current opposition party for having forgotten Sardar Patel’s vision, Modi said that their party did not. He emphasized that after 2014, the nation once again witnessed a steely resolve inspired by Sardar Patel. The Prime Minister highlighted that today, Kashmir has broken free from the shackles of Article 370 and is fully integrated into the mainstream. He remarked that even Pakistan and the masterminds of terrorism have now realized the true strength of India. Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister said the entire world has seen that if anyone dares to challenge India, the country responds by striking within enemy territory. He asserted that India’s response is always stronger and decisive. This, he said, is a message to the enemies of India—“this is the India of the Iron Man, Sardar Patel, and it will never compromise on its security and honour”.
President of India also pays floral tributes to Sardar Patel
The President of India Droupadi Murmu also paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. Earlier, she also visited Sardar Patel Chowk in New Delhi to pay her respects before the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
