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National Unity Day: 31st October 2025
National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) 2025: Commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
National Unity Day, or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is celebrated every year on October 31st to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, reverently known as the "Iron Man of India" and the "Architect of National Unity." The observance, which was first instituted by the Government of India in 2014, is a solemn reminder of his monumental contribution to the political and territorial integration of the newly independent nation.
The 2025 celebration holds special significance as it marks the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel, making the events a grand, year-long, nationwide commemoration under the theme "Ek Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (One India, Self-Reliant India).
IN The Legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950) was a pivotal figure in India's struggle for independence and the nation's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. His most remarkable achievement was the integration of over 560 princely states into the Union of India following the Indian Independence Act of 1947.
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Architect of Unification: Utilizing a blend of diplomacy, foresight, and determination, Patel successfully negotiated and persuaded the rulers of these states—which covered nearly 40% of the country—to accede to the Indian Union. His unwavering resolve prevented the 'balkanization' of India, laying the foundation for the cohesive, modern nation we know today.
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The Iron Man: His firm resolve and pragmatic statecraft, particularly during the integration of challenging states like Junagadh and Hyderabad, earned him the enduring title of the 'Iron Man of India.'
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A Visionary Leader: Patel was instrumental in the establishment of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), which he famously called the "steel frame" of India, essential for maintaining administrative unity.
Significance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas
National Unity Day is celebrated to honor Sardar Patel's legacy and to reinforce the message of unity, integrity, security, and national solidarity among the citizens of India.
Core Objectives:
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Strengthen National Integration: To promote collective responsibility and commitment to the unity of the diverse nation.
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Encourage Commitment: To re-affirm the pledge to preserve the unity, integrity, and security of the country.
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Celebrate Diversity: To showcase and appreciate India's rich cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity, promoting the spirit of "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" (One India, Great India).
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 Celebrations
The 150th birth anniversary celebrations are uniquely elaborate, with the main events centered around the Statue of Unity (the world's tallest statue of Sardar Patel) at Ekta Nagar, Narmada district, Gujarat.
Key Events and Highlights:
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Grand National Unity Day Parade: A spectacular parade, modeled after the Republic Day parade, is the centerpiece.
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Participants: Contingents from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) like BSF, CRPF, CISF, State Police Forces, and NCC cadets.
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Special Attractions: A unique marching contingent of Indian breed dogs (Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds) from the BSF, a Camel-Mounted Band, Horse Contingents, and various martial arts demonstrations.
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Gender Parity: The Guard of Honour for the Prime Minister is led by a female officer, and women personnel from CISF and CRPF showcase Martial Arts drills.
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Tableaux: Ten tableaux from various states and central forces depict the theme "Unity in Diversity."
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Run for Unity (Ekta Daud): A nationwide marathon or walk held in major cities and towns to promote the message of national integration and collective strength, with thousands of citizens participating.
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Unity Pledge Ceremony: Mass pledges are administered in government offices, schools, and colleges to preserve the unity, integrity, and security of the nation.
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Cultural and Educational Programs: Events like cultural festivals featuring 900 artists, essay competitions, debates, short film screenings, and poster-making competitions are organized across the country to inspire youth and highlight Sardar Patel's life and values.
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Official Tributes: The Prime Minister pays floral tributes to Sardar Patel at the Statue of Unity, and a commemorative coin (Rs 150 denomination) and stamp are released to mark the milestone anniversary.
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Sardar@150 Unity March: A nationwide campaign that includes district-level foot marches and a central National Padyatra, along with developmental initiatives like cleanliness drives and tree plantations (Sardar Upvan initiative).
This special observance on October 31, 2025, serves as a powerful reminder for every Indian to uphold the principle of unity in diversity and actively contribute to the nation's progress and self-reliance, thereby fulfilling the vision of the Iron Man of India.
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