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PM addresses at Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programme in Kevadia
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the nation from Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), observed every year on 31st October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. The event marked the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel and was celebrated with great fervour at the Statue of Unity complex in Kevadia.
In his address, the Prime Minister recalled Sardar Patel’s historic role in integrating over 550 princely states after Independence, uniting the nation politically and emotionally at a time of immense uncertainty. He said that Patel transformed the seemingly impossible task of unification into reality through his vision, diplomacy, and determination. “The India that we see today owes its unity to the grit and foresight of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel,” he stated.
Modi emphasised that Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is not merely a commemorative event but a day to renew the nation’s collective commitment to unity and integrity. He urged every citizen to stay vigilant against any thought, action, or ideology that weakens the fabric of national unity. “Unity should be our strength and diversity our pride,” he said.
Highlighting the theme of the celebration, the Prime Minister asserted that this is the India of Sardar Patel — strong, secure, and self-confident. He said the country will never compromise on its national security or self-respect, no matter the circumstances. “The India of today is decisive and resilient. It will firmly safeguard its sovereignty,” he affirmed.
Referring to the challenges of internal security, Modi recalled that there were times when policies related to Kashmir, the North-East, and Naxal-affected regions weakened the spirit of unity. However, since 2014, the nation has witnessed a decisive and integrated approach towards addressing these long-standing challenges.
“Today, peace, stability, and progress are replacing alienation and unrest in these regions,” he said, crediting this change to a consistent focus on development and inclusive governance.
He made a strong statement, saying that on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, India renews its resolve to eliminate every infiltrator who threatens the country’s unity and security.
“Those who live in India must live as Indians; loyalty to the nation is non-negotiable,” the Prime Minister declared.
Modi elaborated on the four pillars of India’s unity — cultural unity, linguistic unity, inclusive development, and emotional connectivity through infrastructure and technology. He highlighted how the government’s developmental policies are guided by these principles, ensuring that every region, community, and language contributes to the shared vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
The Prime Minister praised the growing sense of national cohesion and pride among citizens, as reflected in the massive participation in the Run for Unity events organised across the country. Crores of people, from school students to civil servants, took part in the run, symbolising the collective strength and spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Drawing inspiration from Sardar Patel’s philosophy, Modi said that Patel believed in creating history rather than merely writing it. He encouraged citizens to emulate Patel’s example by working for the progress and unity of the nation through concrete action.
He said, “Just as we celebrate 15th August and 26th January with national pride, 31st October too is becoming a grand festival that strengthens the idea of one nation and one people.”
The Prime Minister called upon all citizens to carry forward Sardar Patel’s dream of a strong, united, and self-reliant India.