Amit Shah Flags Off Run for Unity on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 151st Birth Anniversary

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday flagged off the Run for Unity in New Delhi to mark the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, observed across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day). The event highlighted Patel’s contribution to India’s national integration and sought to promote the message of unity and solidarity among citizens.

The programme was organised at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, where Shah administered the National Unity Pledge to participants before flagging off the run. Around 7,700 people were expected to participate in the event, reflecting the government’s emphasis on encouraging public involvement in activities celebrating national unity.

Several prominent dignitaries attended the programme, including Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, along with other officials and public representatives.

Addressing the gathering, Shah recalled Patel’s role in bringing together several princely states following India’s independence in 1947. He described the former deputy prime minister’s contribution as central to the country’s political and geographical consolidation. Patel, widely known as the Iron Man of India, played a crucial role in integrating hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union, laying the foundation for a united nation.

Shah also emphasised that India’s linguistic, religious and cultural diversity should be viewed as a source of strength. He said national unity remained essential for the country’s progress and called on citizens to uphold the values of solidarity and collective responsibility.

During his address, the home minister referred to several initiatives undertaken by the government, including the abrogation of Article 370, efforts to eliminate Naxalism and the introduction of a unified taxation framework through the Goods and Services Tax (GST). He presented these measures as part of the broader effort to strengthen national integration and administrative unity.

Shah also highlighted the significance of the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with ensuring greater national recognition of Patel’s legacy through the construction of the monument, which has become an important landmark commemorating the freedom fighter and statesman.The home minister also spoke about the government’s campaign against substance abuse, announcing that the country had set a target of becoming drug-free by December 31, 2029. He urged citizens, particularly young people, to participate in the effort to build a healthier society.