Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary, recalling his unmatched contribution to uniting over 500 princely states after Independence.
Speaking at the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, he reflected on Sardar Patel’s enduring vision. He said that the idea of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ was central to Patel’s life and legacy.
PM Modi said, “We are witnessing a historic moment and feeling the power of determination of a Naye Bharat (New India). The performances we have seen today reflect our glorious past, the hard work and courage of the present, and a glimpse of the bright future ahead.”
To mark the occasion, the Prime Minister released a special commemorative coin and postage stamp in honour of Sardar Patel. He congratulated all 140 crore citizens of India, noting that Patel’s vision and determination shaped the country’s destiny.
“After Independence, Sardar Patel united more than 500 princely states and turned the dream of a united India into reality,” he said. “For him, Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat was always the top priority.”
A Day of National Inspiration
PM Modi described Patel’s birth anniversary as a ‘Maha Parv of National Unity’. He compared its significance to that of Independence Day and Republic Day.
He said, “Just as we celebrate August 15 and January 26 with pride, October 31 too has become a day of inspiration. Today, crores of people across the nation have taken an oath of unity, a pledge to strengthen the bonds that hold our country together.”
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister took the Ekta Shapath (unity pledge) to protect India’s unity and integrity.
“I take this oath to protect the unity and integrity of our country and dedicate myself to this cause,” he said.
He added that the pledge represents a firm commitment to maintaining national security and harmony. These were the values that Sardar Patel lived by and that continue to guide India’s progress today.
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