Sardar Patel's Legacy: Reviving the Architect of Indian Unity

Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's pivotal role in unifying 550 princely states into India. Patel's contributions were previously overlooked, but his legacy is preserved through initiatives like Run for Unity and the Statue of Unity. The government plans further celebrations to honor Patel's 150th birth anniversary.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing a crowd at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, expressed concerns over the historical neglect of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contributions to India. Speaking at the commencement of the 'Run for Unity,' Shah emphasized Patel's role in merging over 550 princely states into a unified India.

Shah criticized efforts to downplay Patel's impact and lamented the delay in awarding him the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, which he finally received posthumously in 1991. Shah commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for installing Patel's Statue of Unity, ensuring Patel's legacy endures.

The Modi administration has observed October 31 as National Unity Day since 2014, honoring Patel's birth anniversary and promoting national unity. Shah announced plans for a two-year-long program marking Patel's 150th birth anniversary, highlighting his indispensable role in shaping modern India.

(With inputs from agencies.)