Nation pays homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 147th birth anniversary

The nation pays homage to the unifier of Modern India, Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 147th birth anniversary today. 

The day is also celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Home Minister Amit Shah paid floral tribute at the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Patel Chowk in New Delhi this morning.

Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena and Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi also paid tributes to Sardar Patel.

After the floral tribute, Mr Shah flagged off 'Run for Unity' from the National Stadium in New Delhi, in which around 8,000 people took part. Delhi Lt Governor, Union Ministers S Jaishankar and Meenakshi Lekh were also present during the event.

Speaking at the event , Mr Shah said today we are remembering Sardar Patel for his contribution to the future of India.

He said that Sardar Patel had played an important role in persuading many princely states to join the Union of India.

He added that this day is also important for the country, as we are celebrating Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. Mr Shah also urged the people to follow the footsteps of Sardar Patel to work for the unity and integrity of the country.

Moreover Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan flagged off the Unity Run on the occasion of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas from Delhi University this morning. Vice Chancellor, Delhi University Prof Yogesh Singh, along with Registrar, Principals, teachers, senior officials and students of CBSE Schools, Kendriya Vidyalaya and the University took part in the Unity Run.

The celebration also witnessed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge taking ceremony near Gandhi Statue adjacent Vice Regal Lodge and an address by the Education Minister.

Special Exhibits on the life of Sardar Patel was displayed at Jawahar Park, Vice Regal Lodge to commemorate one of the most revered sons of the soil and learn from his life.