Amit Shah Highlights Sardar Patel’s Legacy Ahead of National Unity Day
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the enduring significance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contributions to India during a recent event, marking the lead-up to Patel’s birth anniversary on October 31. Speaking at the ‘Run for Unity’ event at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Shah lamented the historical efforts to diminish Patel’s legacy, noting that he was unjustly deprived of the Bharat Ratna for many years.
Shah praised Patel, India’s first home minister, for his pivotal role in unifying over 550 princely states into the Indian Union, including regions such as Lakshadweep Islands, Junagarh, and Hyderabad. He stated, “It was due to Sardar Patel’s foresightedness and acumen that India became a united nation.”
Reflecting on Patel’s recognition, Shah pointed out that he was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1991, 41 years after his passing in 1950. He also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in honoring Patel’s legacy, notably through the installation of the world’s tallest statue of the leader in Kevadia when Modi served as the chief minister of Gujarat.
Amit Shah called for national unity, asserting that the Indian populace is committed to realizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of transforming India into a fully developed nation by 2047. “By 2047, India will lead the world across all parameters,” he declared.
The ‘Run for Unity,’ typically held on October 31, was scheduled two days early this year to avoid conflict with Deepawali festivities. Shah highlighted the significance of the occasion, linking it to Dhanteras, a day of auspicious beginnings in the Hindu calendar.
Since 2014, the Modi government has designated October 31 as ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ or National Unity Day, aiming to reinforce the principles of unity, integrity, and security throughout the nation. Patel, born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, is widely revered for his efforts in fostering national cohesion.
As part of the National Unity Day celebrations, various programs are being organized to honor Sardar Patel’s monumental contributions. In a recent announcement, Shah revealed plans for a two-year nationwide program to commemorate Patel’s 150th birth anniversary from 2024 to 2026, underscoring the ongoing commitment to preserving his legacy and promoting national unity.
