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New Delhi, October 31 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on ‘National Unity Day’ at the Statue of Unity located on the Narmada river in Gujarat’s Ekta Nagar.
The tribute featured a grand parade and cultural performances, highlighting India’s unity in diversity. ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ or National Unity Day, celebrated every year on 31 October, marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and is dedicated to promoting national integrity, unity and security.
During the program, PM Modi took oath to protect the unity and integrity of the country. Addressing the gathering he said, “I take an oath to protect the unity and integrity of my country and to dedicate myself to this cause.”
He further said, “I take this pledge in the spirit of national unity and am committed to maintaining internal security.”
The Unity Oath, or Unity Pledge, is a solemn pledge to dedicate oneself to maintaining the unity, integrity and security of India.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi offered prayers at the statue and paid floral tributes at around 8 am.
He witnessed the National Unity Day Parade, which included various contingents including BSF, CRPF and state police forces.
Earlier, he had written on
In a video message, the Prime Minister described him as the architect of India’s unification. He said, “Sardar Patel had the unique ability to unite people, even with those with whom he had ideological differences. He took care of every little thing and dedicated his life to the unity of the nation. He connected the people of India to the freedom movement, worked to merge the princely states into our country and instilled the mantra of unity in diversity among all Indians.”
–IANS
JK/DPB