Observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

Kolkata, Oct 30: The Government observes October 31 all over the country as a day of special occasion, to foster and reinforce the Government’s dedication to preserve and strengthen unity, integrity and security of our nation, by celebrating it as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the founding fathers of the Republic of India. Sardar Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India, was born on October 31, 1875. Although his official birthday is still unknown, Patel wrote his date of birth to be October 31 on his matriculation examination paper, hence, the day is celebrated as his birth anniversary and is also observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day. One of the most influential personalities to have fought for Independence, Sardar Patel , hailing from a farmer's family lived a simple life and was known for his wisdom and diplomatic skills. Surpassing the celebrations in recent years, the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas this year is going to be a much bigger affair. The day will be marked by taking of pledges to uphold the nation’s unity, mass mobilization, paramilitary march past, Run for Unity, poster and quiz competitions and exhibitions to highlight the Sardar’s role at the critical juncture in India’s history. There will be celebrations at the national level and across the country. Preparations are in full swing. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, has written to Chief Ministers to make suitable arrangements for the celebrations. The occasion is really pious, as the nation not only has to mark its gratitude to a formidable personality of Indian freedom struggle, but at the same time educate and update the new generation about him. In the National Capital Territory of Delhi, celebrations on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas between 0700 and 0800 hours include offering Floral Tribute to Sardar Patel at Patel Chowk by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by administering Pledge and flagging off the Run for Unity. ‘Run’ will take place from National Stadium - C-Hexagon – Shah Jahan Road Radial – India Gate (1.5 km). A large gathering is expected to participate in the Run. P.V. Sindhu (Badminton), Mitali Raj (Cricket) and Sardar Singh (Hockey) are likely to participate. The Run will be organized by experienced Coaches from Sports Authority of India. Ministries/ Departments involved in organizing the programme include Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Department of Sports, Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and GNCTD and Organizations involved include CPWD, NDMC, DDA, SAI, CAPFs and Delhi Police. UNI