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
