Indian National Unity Day or Ekta Diwas is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of India’s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a prominent role during the struggle for independence. His efforts to integrate the princely states were commendable and hence earned him the title ‘Iron Man of India’. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas in India is honored annually on 31st October to recognize the valiant efforts of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in keeping an independent India United and to honor his legacy.
31 October was officially declared as “National Unity Day” in 2014 by the Home Minister of India. The statement said: “This day will be Indiamarked as a reminder of our nation’s strength and will highlight our country’s resilience against threats to our security, unity and integrity.”
National Unity Day: History and Significance
The history of India’s National Unity Day or Ekta Diwas dates back to 2014 when the central government declared Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary to be India’s National Unity Day on October 31. The main idea behind the establishment of this day was to ensure that the safety, security, integrity and unity of our country is maintained at all times. This day is dedicated to educate people about Sardar Patel’s great contribution to keep the unity of India.
Every year, on the occasion of India’s National Unity Day, the pledge is read aloud in all the government offices of the country. The pledge reads: “I solemnly pledge that I will devote myself to the preservation of the unity, integrity and security of the nation and will also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of the unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and deeds of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.” I also solemnly pledge to contribute to the internal security of my country.”
Famous Quotes by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
– Every Indian should now forget that he is a Rajput, a Sikh or a Jat. He must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in his country but with certain duties.
– We have tried to overcome our weaknesses honestly and in a definite manner. The proof, if any proof is needed, is Hindu-Muslim unity.
– Little pools of water tend to become stagnant and useless, but if they are joined together to form a big lake the atmosphere is cooled and there is universal benefit.x
– The war started by Mahatmaji is against two things – the Government and secondly against oneself. The former kind of war is closed, but the latter shall never cease. It is meant for self-purification.
– The negligence of a few could easily send a ship to the bottom, but if it has the wholehearted cooperation of all on board it can be safely brought to part.
