New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today urged citizens across the nation to actively participate in the ‘Run for Unity’ scheduled for October 31. The event is set to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the principal architect of India’s political integration.
The annual event, which coincides with Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), is a celebration of the spirit of unity and togetherness that Sardar Patel envisioned for India. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was instituted by the Government of India in 2014 to honor the legacy of the nation’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, who was instrumental in integrating over 500 princely states into the Indian Union after independence.
Responding to a post by Ekta Diwas Bharat on X, Shri Modi wrote: “Join the Run for Unity on 31st October and celebrate the spirit of togetherness! Let’s honour Sardar Patel’s vision of a united India.”
This year’s observance holds special significance as it marks the beginning of the two-year-long commemorations for Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. The ‘Run for Unity’ is intended to reinforce the nation’s dedication to preserving and strengthening its unity, integrity, and security, reflecting the core message of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
Events including the ‘Run for Unity,’ the administering of the National Unity Day pledge, and various cultural programs are planned across the country, encouraging widespread public participation to pay tribute to the ‘Iron Man of India’ and his monumental contributions to a united nation.