New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid a tribute to country’s first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel ahead of his birth anniversary on October 31, in his 49th Mann Ki Baat radio address. He also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi whose death anniversary also falls on the same date.

Recalling Patel's contribution in uniting the nation, Modi said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India". He also announced the unveiling of the 'Statue of Unity' on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district as a tribute to Patel.

"Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty':.

He exhorted people to participate in the 'Run for Unity' -- a marathon organised across the country to mark Patel's birth anniversary.

Modi also linked Infantry Day - observed in commemoration of the first victorious military action led by the Infantry in Jammu and Kashmir after Independence to drive out Pakistani invaders - to Patel.

He also hailed the winners  of Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. He said : “was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary & inspiring. India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals".