New Delhi, Agency
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, remembering the country's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister as the architect of India's unity and a towering leader whose dedication, sacrifices and commitment to nation-building continued to inspire the country's pursuit of development and self-reliance.
In a message posted on social media platform X, Modi described Patel as the country's "Iron Man" and a pioneer of the vision of Akhand Bharat, paying homage to him for his lifelong contribution towards building a strong, prosperous and capable nation.
"On the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of Akhand Bharat and the Iron Man of the country, I offer my respectful tributes to him," the Prime Minister said.
He added that Patel's sacrifices and unwavering dedication in the service of the motherland remained a lasting source of inspiration for the collective resolve to build a developed and self-reliant India.
Born on October 31, 1875, Patel was among the foremost leaders of India's freedom struggle and played a crucial role in the country's political consolidation following Independence. As independent India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, he spearheaded the integration of more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union, a historic exercise that laid the foundations of India's territorial and political unity.
Widely known as the Iron Man of India, Patel's contribution to national integration, his administrative vision and his determination in dealing with the challenges confronting the newly independent country earned him a lasting place in India's political history. His efforts in bringing the princely states together were particularly significant in ensuring the consolidation of the Indian union at a critical juncture in the country's history.
October 31 is observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to commemorate Patel's birth anniversary and honour his contribution to India's unity, integrity and nation-building.
The occasion also serves as a reminder of his vision of a united India and the importance of preserving the country's national cohesion.
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