Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
New Delhi, Oct 31 (IANS) President Draupadi Murmu on Friday paid tribute to India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary, which was observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) across the country.
In a post on Twitter, President Murmu wrote, “On the birth anniversary of the ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, I extend my warm wishes to all my fellow citizens. Sardar Patel was a great patriot, visionary leader and nation-builder, who accomplished the historic task of uniting the country through his unwavering resolve, indomitable courage and skillful leadership. His dedication and spirit of national service serves as an inspiration to all of us. Let us unite on the occasion of ‘National Unity Day’ Let us resolve together to build a strong, harmonious and excellent India.”
The President also paid floral tributes to Sardar Patel at a function held in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the Iron Man, calling him the architect of India’s unity.
“India pays tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary. He was the driving force behind the unification of India, thus shaping the destiny of our country in its formative years. His unwavering commitment to national integrity, good governance and public service has continued to inspire generations. We also reaffirm our collective resolve to live up to his vision of a united, strong and self-reliant India,” the Prime Minister posted on Twitter.
In a video message, the Prime Minister said, “Sardar Patel had the unique ability to unite people, even those with whom he had ideological differences. He observed and tested every little thing and dedicated his life to the unity of the nation. He united the people of India with the freedom movement, worked to merge the princely states into our country and awakened the mantra of unity in diversity among all Indians.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also paid tribute.
Amit Shah wrote on Twitter, “On behalf of a grateful nation, I pay tribute to the Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel ji, a symbol of national unity, integrity and empowerment of farmers, on the occasion of his birth anniversary.”
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said, “He united not just the regions but the soul of India, shaping the foundation of our national unity and strength.”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also posted, “I pay tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary. On #NationalUnityDay, the nation values his vision and leadership that secured our unity and integrity. We also deeply cherish his contribution as a freedom fighter and an ideal administrator.”
Across India, the day is celebrated with Run for Unity events and celebrations celebrating Patel’s enduring legacy as the unifier of modern India.
–IANS
RS/DPB