Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the iconic Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, marking the 151st birth anniversary of India’s Iron Man.
The occasion is observed across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to commemorate Patel’s extraordinary contribution to India’s unity, national integration and nation-building.
The Prime Minister’s tribute took place on the second and final day of his Gujarat visit. The ceremony was marked by a spectacular aerial tribute, with Indian Air Force helicopters showering flower petals over the world’s tallest statue, dedicated to the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel remains one of the most influential leaders in India’s freedom struggle and post-Independence history. His determination, leadership and political vision played a historic role in integrating more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union, laying the foundation for a united India.
His contributions to strengthening the country’s administrative structure and preserving national integrity continue to hold significance in India’s democratic journey.
PM Modi Participates in National Unity Day Celebrations
As part of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to participate in various commemorative programmes at Ekta Nagar later in the day.
Earlier, on Friday, the Prime Minister inaugurated Bharat Parv 2026 as part of the National Unity Day celebrations. The festival will continue until November 15 and showcases India’s rich cultural diversity, traditions, cuisines, handicrafts and heritage.
Organised around the theme ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, Bharat Parv brings together the cultural identities of different States and Union Territories on a common platform, highlighting India’s unity through its diversity.
Development Projects Worth Over ₹400 Crore
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of several development projects worth more than ₹400 crore in Ekta Nagar.
The projects are aimed at strengthening local infrastructure, improving public facilities and enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Key initiatives include a sewage and water treatment plant, façade lighting, upgradation of Narmada Ghat and development-related works at the Rainforest, among other projects.
The initiatives are expected to support infrastructure development and improve facilities in the popular tourism destination.
The Statue of Unity, situated near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, stands as a lasting tribute to Patel’s vision and contribution to India’s national integration.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is observed every year on October 31, reinforcing the values of national unity, integrity, harmony and collective responsibility.
Through the annual observance, the nation remembers Sardar Patel’s enduring legacy and his pivotal role in shaping modern India.
