Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day): History, Objective, Significance, Celebration, Pledge, and more

Rashtriya Ekta Diwas also known as National Unity Day is celebrated on the 31st of October every year. In 2014 the government of India dedicated this date to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the country’s first Home Minister and Deputy prime Minster after Independence. He played a crucial role in influencing several princely states into the Union of India. Around more than 500 princely states were influenced by him to join the Union of India. This year, it remarks the 147th birth anniversary of Iron Man of India. 

Objective of Celebrating Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

Every year the day is celebrated to preserve and uplift the nation’s unity. Also, spread awareness about Sardar Vallabhai Patel’s significance and contribution to the country’s history.

31st October in History

Indian government introduces National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas in the year 2014 to tribute to Patel for his incredible work in persuading the country to maintain unity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Rashtriya Ekta Diwas in 2014 in New Delhi in the program “Run for Unity”.

Additionally, in memory of Iron Man of India, the Government of India has also constructed the world’s tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhai Patel near Narmada River, Gujarat.

Significance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

In an official statement of National Unity Day, the Home Minster of India stated. “The day will provide an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand the actual and potential threats to the unity, integrity, and security of our country.”

Celebration and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge

National Unity Day is celebrated in all public and private institutions, colleges, schools, etc with great enthusiasm. In the year 2019, at the Statue of Unity, Prime Minister administered the National Unity Day pledge that reads:

“I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserving the unity, integrity, and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure the internal security of my country.”

To recognize the people’s inspiring contribution to promoting national unity and integrity The Sardar Patel National Unity Award is also presented on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. Maintaining the theme of Unity numerous schools and colleges host cultural activities.

Here Know Inspiring Quotes by Sardar Vallabhai Patel

• The stiffer the opponent, the more our affection goes out to him. That is the significance of Satyagraha.

• Faith is of no evil in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential for accomplishing any great work.

• Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly, then it becomes a spiritual power.

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