New Delhi: National Unity Day, or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is observed annually on October 31. The day was first started in 2014. The government of India started this day in honour of the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhai Patel. This year marks the 10th anniversary of National Unity Day. Sardar Patel contributed significantly to uniting the country after India gained independence. The day promotes national integrity, unity, and a collective spirit among citizens.
In this article, let us learn about the purpose of National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
National Unity Day 2024: What is the purpose of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas?
Sardar Vallabhai Patel worked on the 565 self-governing princely states to accede to India after gaining Independence from British rule.
The day is observed to show the strength and resilience of the nation by maintaining integrity, unity and spirit.
On this day, in honour of Sardar Patel’s magnificent contributions, the government of India inaugurated the world’s tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhai Patel in Gujarat. The statue depicts the strength of unity in India.
The statue is called the “Statue of Unity” and is regarded by many as the 8th wonder of the world.
On October 31, the Indian government celebrates National Unity Day. The Sardar Patel National Unity Award honours people who have made important contributions to national unity and integrity.
Sardar Patel earned the nickname “Iron Man of India” for his dedication to uniting the newly independent country.
On this day, the ‘Run for Unity’ event occurs nationwide, where people from all backgrounds participate.
What is the Unity Pledge?
On this day, in the remembrance of Sardar Patel, a pledge is read out. The pledge reads, “I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserving the unity, integrity, and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of the unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure the internal security of my country.”
