Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called upon citizens to participate in the ‘Run for Unity’ on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), celebrated annually on October 31 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This year marks the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India.
In a post on X, PM 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.” He also shared a message from Ekta Diwas Bharat, encouraging people to participate in large numbers and strengthen the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
The shared post read, “Our diversity is India’s soul, and Sardar Patel wove it into unity. PM Modi carries this vision forward. Celebrate his 150th birth anniversary, join the Run for Unity, and strengthen the spirit of national integration.”
During his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address on Sunday, PM Modi paid tribute to Sardar Patel for his unmatched contribution to India’s freedom movement and nation-building, calling him “one of the greatest luminaries of modern India.”
He highlighted Patel’s early life, academic brilliance, and his successful legal career before he devoted himself fully to the freedom struggle under Mahatma Gandhi’s influence. PM Modi also recalled Patel’s leadership during historic movements such as the Kheda and Borsad Satyagrahas, and his impactful tenure as the head of the Ahmedabad Municipality, where he prioritised clean governance and civic reforms.
PM Modi further emphasised that Sardar Patel laid the foundation of India’s administrative framework and played a key role in ensuring the unity and integrity of the nation post-Independence.
Urging citizens to take part in the national event, the Prime Minister said, “I urge everyone to join the Run for Unity on October 31 — not just individually, but along with friends and family. Let this be a moment of youth awakening and collective strength. This will be our true tribute to the great leader who united India.”
The Run for Unity is organised across India every year, drawing participants from all walks of life to promote national unity, fitness, and patriotism, while honouring the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.