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National Unity Day

India is a country full of diversity – such diversity in language, religion, culture, tradition, customs and lifestyle is hardly seen in any other country. Maintaining the integrity and unity of the country amidst this diversity was no easy task. This was possible due to the amazing leadership and vision of those great heroes of our freedom struggle, who tied the country together.

One such great man was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who is known as the "Iron Man of India". To commemorate his contribution and strengthen the resolve towards national unity, the Government of India declared 31 October as "National Unity Day" from 2014. This day is celebrated on the occasion of Sardar Patel's birth anniversary.

Objective of National Unity Day

The main objective of this day is:

  • To strengthen the spirit of maintaining the unity, integrity and security of the country.
  • To inspire the youth by remembering the contribution of Sardar Patel.
  • Keeping the country united despite regional, linguistic, religious and cultural differences.
  • To pledge to protect the sovereignty of India and the values of the Constitution.

Biography of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (in brief)

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born on October 31, 1875, in the village of Nadiad, located in the present-day state of Gujarat. He was a determined, hardworking and fearless personality. After establishing himself as a successful lawyer, he joined the freedom movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and made a significant contribution to India’s independence.

After independence, he became the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India. His greatest achievement was the integration of 562 princely states into a Republic of India, which was an extremely complex and challenging task. Due to this wonderful work of his, he was called "Bismarck of India" and "Iron Man".

Integration of Princely States – Unique Contribution of Sardar Patel

When India became independent on 15 August 1947, the biggest challenge before the country was to integrate hundreds of princely states. These princely states were ruled by their own rulers and many of them were not ready to merge with India. Princely states like Hyderabad, Junagadh and Kashmir were refusing to join India.

Sardar Patel integrated these princely states with India with iron resolve, political skill and power of dialogue. He gave a clear message that there will be no compromise with the unity of India. When necessary, he did not even shy away from military action, like ensuring integration in Hyderabad through 'Operation Polo'.

It is because of his efforts that India stands as an organized and unified nation today.

Importance of National Unity

  1. Social Harmony: Without unity, division, conflict and instability increase in the society. Brotherhood and peace are possible only with unity.
  2. National Security: It is very important for the country to remain united to deal with external attacks or terrorist threats.
  3. Economic progress: When there is unity and stability in the country, investment, industry and employment opportunities increase.
  4. Protection of culture and heritage: Our diverse culture can remain safe only when we remain bound by the thread of unity.
  5. Political stability: Problems like regionalism, linguism and casteism remain under control when national unity is considered paramount.

Challenges to National Integration

  1. Regionalism and Separatism: Some regional parties and movements put their interests above national interests, which poses a threat to national unity.
  2. Linguistic Disputes: Hundreds of languages and dialects are spoken in India. Sometimes conflicts arise over language as well.
  3. Religious fanaticism and communalism: When there is a lack of tolerance between different religions, it weakens the unity of the country.
  4. Political selfishness: Some politicians try to divide the society for vote bank, which affects unity.
  5. Fake news on social media: Rumors and misleading information can increase differences and hatred among people.

National Unity Day Activities

Every year, various programs are organized across the country on this day:

  • 'Run for Unity': This race is organized in schools, colleges, institutions and government offices across the country.
  • Pledge Ceremony: People take an oath of unity that they will protect the integrity and sovereignty of the country.
  • Essay, Speech and Painting Competitions: To inculcate the spirit of unity among children and youth.
  • Flower-offering at Sardar Patel statues and memorials: Grand ceremony takes place especially at the ‘Statue of Unity’ (world’s tallest statue) located in Gujarat.

Statue of Unity – Symbol of National Pride

The Statue of Unity, built in Kevadia, Gujarat in memory of Sardar Patel, is the world’s tallest statue (182 meters). It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 31 October 2018. This statue is not only a tribute to Sardar Patel, but it is also a symbol of India’s unity, perseverance and pride.

Our Responsibility

National unity is not just a slogan but a behavior that we should adopt in our lives:

  • Respect all religions, languages and castes.
  • Avoid rumors and fake news.
  • Resolve differences through dialogue and tolerance.
  • Put national interest above personal and regional interests.
  • Have faith in the Constitution and democracy.

Conclusion

National unity is not the work of any one person, government or institution, but is the collective responsibility of all of us. Maintaining and strengthening the foundation of unity laid by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel will be our greatest tribute. Today, when many countries in the world are struggling with internal conflicts, it is a matter of pride that unity is maintained in a diverse country like India.

National Unity Day is not just a day, but we should live every day with the feeling that –
"We may look, speak, think differently – but we are one, we are Indians."