PM Narendra Modi addresses National Unity Day event in Gujarat
On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, during the ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ or National Unity Day event. During his speech, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of October 31 as a day to celebrate and promote the spirit of nationalism, akin to the fervor surrounding India’s Independence Day on August 15 and Republic Day on January 26.
In his tribute to Sardar Patel, India’s first home minister, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the pivotal role played by Patel in the country’s struggle for independence and in the subsequent integration of the princely states to form the Union of India. Acknowledging Patel’s visionary leadership and his efforts in unifying the diverse and fragmented princely states into a singular, cohesive nation, Modi urged the nation to draw inspiration from Patel’s principles of unity, integrity, and hard work.
Emphasizing the need for unity and collective effort, the Prime Minister encouraged the citizens of India to work in tandem towards the common goal of national development and prosperity. He outlined a vision for the next 25 years, considering it a crucial period for the nation’s advancement, and stressed the importance of leveraging this time frame to propel India towards greater economic growth and development. He urged the citizens to take cues from Sardar Patel’s dedication and commitment to the nation’s progress and emphasized the need for collective action and perseverance in achieving the set developmental objectives.
The event at the Statue of Unity, an iconic monument dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, symbolizes the government’s recognition of Patel’s significant contributions to India’s freedom struggle and nation-building efforts. It serves as a reminder of the principles of unity, nationalism, and inclusive development, which are essential for the country’s continued progress and prosperity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech at the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas event at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat included references to the abrogation of Article 370 and its impact on the region of Kashmir. He hailed the removal of the “wall of Article 370” as a significant development, suggesting that it has contributed to the liberation of the people of Kashmir from the shadows of terrorism. In doing so, the Prime Minister implied that the revocation of Article 370 has led to positive changes in the region, enabling its residents to experience newfound opportunities and freedom.
Acknowledging the historical significance of the occasion, Prime Minister Modi suggested that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a key figure in India’s struggle for independence and the unification of the nation, would be pleased with the progress made in uniting the country, especially in light of the changes in the status of Kashmir.
Moreover, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the Statue of Unity not only as a symbol of national pride but also as a means for people to gain insights into Sardar Patel’s life, sacrifices, and his significant contributions to the unification and development of a cohesive India. The Statue of Unity serves as a monumental reminder of Patel’s vision and dedication, allowing visitors to connect with his legacy and the ideals that shaped the nation’s unity and integrity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, recognizing his pivotal role in the unification of India and the establishment of a cohesive nation. He highlighted Patel’s significant contributions, underscoring his leadership and determination in integrating the diverse princely states into the Union of India.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of Sardar Patel’s legacy, illustrating how the construction of the Statue of Unity symbolizes the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat – Shrestha Bharat’ or ‘One India – Best India’. He drew attention to the widespread participation in the ‘Run for Unity’ event across the country, which not only reflects the public’s enthusiasm for national unity but also embodies the essence of Sardar Patel’s vision for a united India.
Born in Gujarat in 1875, Sardar Patel’s journey from being a lawyer to emerging as a prominent Congress leader and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence remains a significant part of India’s history. As the first home minister of independent India, his contribution to the nation’s unification is widely acknowledged, with his diplomatic approach and resolute leadership instrumental in persuading the princely states to join the Union.
Prime Minister Modi’s address effectively encapsulated Sardar Patel’s life, sacrifices, and the enduring legacy of his efforts in nation-building. His remarks underscored the relevance of Patel’s values and principles in shaping India’s unity and integrity, with the aim of inspiring the nation to continue working towards achieving Sardar Patel’s vision of a strong, united, and prosperous India.
