Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity

 Gujarat:31/10/24:   The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today participated in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat. The  Prime Minister offered a floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary. Shri Modi also administered the Ekta Diwas pledge and witnessed Ekta Diwas Parade on the occasion of  Rashtriya Ekta Diwas which is celebrated every year on October 31 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

The Prime Minister said, “Sardar Sahab’s powerful words…this program near the Statue of Unity…this panoramic view of Ekta Nagar…the wonderful performances held here…this glimpse of mini India…everything is so amazing…it is inspiring.” Extending greetings to all the countrymen on National Unity Day, the Prime Minister said that just like 15 August and 26 January, this event on 31 October fills the entire country with new energy.

On the occasion of Diwali, the Prime Minister conveyed his wishes to all the Indians living in the country and the world. He noted this time the National Unity Day has brought a wonderful coincidence of celebrating this festival of unity along with the festival of Deepawali. “Deepawali, through the medium of lamps, connects the whole country, illuminates the whole country. And now the festival of Deepawali is also connecting India with the world”, he added.

The Prime Minister underlined that this year’s Ekta Diwas is more special as Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary year is starting from today. For the next 2 years, the country will celebrate Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. This is the country’s tribute to his extraordinary contribution to India. The Prime Minister emphasised that this celebration of two years will strengthen our resolve for one India, a great India. This occasion will teach us that even the seemingly impossible can be made possible, he added.

The Prime Minister highlighted that today’s India has vision, direction and determination. An India which is strong as well as inclusive. Which is sensitive as well as cautious. Which is humble as well as on the path of development. Which understands the importance of both strength and peace. The Prime Minister lauded India’s rapid development amidst global unrest, positioning India as a beacon of peace while maintaining strength. Amidst conflicts in various parts of the world, he said, “India emerges as a global friend.” He also underscored the importance of unity and vigilance, stating that some forces are troubled by India’s progress and aim to harm India’s economic interests and sow divisions. He urged Indians to recognize these divisive elements and safeguard national unity.

As the Prime Minister concluded his address, he quoted Sardar Patel, urging the nation to remain committed to unity. “We must remember that India is a land of diversity. Only by celebrating diversity can unity be strengthened.” ‘‘The next 25 years are very important in terms of unity. Therefore, we should not let this mantra of unity weaken. It is necessary for rapid economic development. It is necessary for social harmony. It is necessary for true social justice, for jobs, for investment,” he said. The Prime Minister called on every citizen to join in strengthening India’s social harmony, economic growth, and commitment to unity.