Ekta Nagar, 31 October (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid floral homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, marking the 151st birth anniversary of India's first Deputy Prime Minister.

PM Modi arrived at the memorial in the morning and offered flowers in tribute to the country's first Home Minister, whose leadership played a decisive role in bringing more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union following Independence.

In his message on the occasion, the Prime Minister recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's enduring contribution to national integration and the process of nation-building. He said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had devoted his life to the vision of a strong, prosperous and capable India.

PM Modi also observed that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's spirit of sacrifice and unwavering commitment to public service continued to inspire the country's efforts towards becoming developed and self-reliant.

Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is widely remembered as the 'Iron Man of India' for his role in consolidating the country after Independence. He served as India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister and remained a central figure in the integration of the princely states.

The birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is observed annually as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day. The observance was instituted in 2014 to reaffirm the country's commitment to preserving its unity, integrity and security.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar