On the occasion of National Unity Day 2022, India’s Union Home Minister paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 147th birth anniversary. Patel is revered for his foresight and determination in creating a strong, united India.
Significance of National Unity Day
National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, celebrated annually on October 31, marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The day promotes unity and societal upliftment by commemorating Patel’s steadfast commitment to national integrity. Instituted in 2014, various events, including the nationwide Run For Unity marathon, are held to increase awareness about Patel’s contributions.
The Statue of Unity
The 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Patel saw the unveiling of the ‘Statue of Unity’ by the Indian government in 2018. Standing tall at 182 meters in Gujarat, it is the tallest statue globally and was added to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s ‘Eight Wonders’ in January 2020.
Unifying Force: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Born on 31st October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India. His significant role in integrating India post-independence earned him the title of the nation’s unifier. Patel’s ideology of unity continues to echo through contemporary initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to make India self-reliant.
Patel’s Contributions to Public Administration
Known as the ‘Patron saint of India’s civil servants,’ Patel established the modern all-India services system. He also headed important committees of the Constituent Assembly of India, such as the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights and the Provincial Constitution Committee.
Patel’s Work in Social Reform and Independence Movements
Sardar Patel significantly contributed to social reform by fighting against alcohol consumption, untouchability, caste discrimination, and advocating for women’s emancipation. His efforts to integrate farmers’ issues in movements like Kheda Satyagraha and Bardoli Satyagraha with the national freedom movement were notable. He was conferred the title ‘Sardar,’ meaning a leader, by the women of Bardoli.
Patel’s Role in Integrating Princely States
Sardar Patel played a pivotal role in integrating approximately 565 princely states into the Indian Union post-independence. States reluctant to join India, including Travancore, Hyderabad, Junagadh, Bhopal, and Kashmir, eventually acceded due to Patel’s tireless diplomacy and negotiations. In certain situations, he did not hesitate to use forceful methods when persuasive ones failed, as seen in Junagadh and Hyderabad’s cases.
The Legacy of the “Iron Man of India”
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the “Iron Man of India”, was instrumental in unifying and integrating the Indian princely states into the Indian federation. His efforts were crucial in convincing princely states to align with the Indian Union. He passed away on 15th December 1950 in Bombay.
Related Questions in UPSC Civil Services Examination
Previous Year Questions (PYQs) in Prelims:
1. Who among the following were official Congress negotiators with Cripps Mission? (2010)
2. For the Karachi Session of Indian National Congress in 1931, presided over by Sardar Patel, who drafted the Resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Programme? (2010)