Unity Day Tribute: PM Modi honors Sardar Patel at Statue of Unity on 150th birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kevadia, Gujarat, to pay homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 150th birth anniversary. The occasion, celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), was marked by a grand ceremony at the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue standing 182 meters high on the banks of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. PM Modi offered floral tributes to the Iron Man of India, whose efforts were instrumental in uniting the nation post-independence. The event featured a spectacular aerial flower shower over the monument and preparations for a massive parade led entirely by women officers. Sixteen contingents from BSF, CISF, ITBP, CRPF, and SSB participated, showcasing the strength and discipline of India’s security forces. Gallantry awardees from anti-Naxal operations and medal winners from Operation Sindoor were also honored for their service. Designed by Padma Bhushan awardee sculptor Ram V. Sutar, the Statue of Unity was inaugurated on October 31, 2018, after five years of construction costing ₹2,989 crore. National Unity Day, initiated by the Modi government in 2014, continues to inspire youth with Patel’s legacy of unity, courage, and administrative excellence.