Birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, 31 October to be celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

The Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which falls on 31 October, will be celebrated as National Integration Day of Rashtriya Ekta Divas from now on.

Objective of the Commemoration

The government will attempt to create awareness among the people about Sardar Patel’s contribution towards India’s freedom struggle and ensuring national integration in India. Sardar Patel played a pivotal role in the merger of princely states with British ruled India to form a sovereign united country called India

Rashtriya Ekta Divas (RED)

The government will try to make RED a mass movement, reaching people from all avenues of life. The participation of the people shall be voluntary.
On October 31 this year, the PM will participate in the event and broadcast a short radio address.
In the morning of October 31, a ‘run for unity’ marathon will be organized in cities, towns and villages all over India. In the evening, Police and other organizations like the NSS, NCC, Scouts and Guides, Home Guards etc will march on the streets in all district headquarters.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Sardar Patel was born on 31 October, 1875 at Karamsand, Gujarat. He was a barrister with a successful law practice, before he left the law to join the Indian national movement under Gandhi. He played a major role in organizing peasants’ movements in Kheda and Bardoli in Gujarat, and during the Quit India movement. His biggest contribution to India was his role in the integration of the over 500 princely states with India during 1947-49.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2014