On October 31, 2025, India celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. The nation marked the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made striking statements about Kashmir’s integration history. He revealed that Sardar Patel wanted complete Kashmir unification with India. However, then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru prevented this vision from becoming reality.
Historic Revelations at Statue of Unity
Prime Minister Modi addressed the gathering near the towering Statue of Unity. This 182-meter monument stands as the world’s tallest statue. Moreover, it commemorates Sardar Patel’s unparalleled contribution to Indian unity. The Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebration featured a grand parade. Women officers commanded all contingents from BSF, CISF, ITBP, CRPF, and SSB.
The Prime Minister stated clearly during his address. “Sardar Patel wanted to unite the entire Kashmir, just as he did with other princely states,” PM Modi declared. However, Nehru stopped this wish from being fulfilled. Consequently, Kashmir received a separate Constitution and flag. The nation suffered for decades because of this mistake.
Kashmir Division: A Congressional Error
PM Modi emphasized the historical context of Kashmir’s special status. After Independence, Patel successfully integrated 550 princely states into India. His diplomatic skills and strategic vision accomplished this seemingly impossible task. Nevertheless, Kashmir’s integration remained incomplete. Article 370 granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, this provision became a contentious issue for decades.
“Sardar Patel believed that one should not waste time writing history. Instead, we should work hard to create history.”
The Prime Minister criticized Congress policies on Kashmir vehemently. He explained how weak policies allowed Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to emerge. Additionally, Pakistan encouraged terrorism in the region. Kashmir and the country paid a heavy price. Yet Congress always bowed to terrorism, Modi asserted.
Sardar Patel’s Vision for United India
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel served as India’s first Home Minister. He also held the position of Deputy Prime Minister. His role in political integration of India remains unmatched. Between June 1947 and August 1947, most princely states signed Instruments of Accession. Patel’s States Department, with VP Menon as Secretary, facilitated this process.
The integration of Junagadh demonstrated Patel’s resolute approach. The Nawab wanted to accede to Pakistan despite popular opposition. However, Patel’s decisive efforts brought Junagadh into India. Similarly, Operation Polo in September 1948 integrated Hyderabad. The Nizam of Hyderabad initially resisted accession. Nevertheless, Patel’s strategic military action secured Hyderabad’s integration within days.
Kashmir Accession: Complex Historical Reality
Kashmir’s accession followed a different trajectory than other princely states. Maharaja Hari Singh remained undecided about joining India or Pakistan. In October 1947, Pakistan-backed tribal forces invaded Kashmir. The Maharaja sought urgent assistance from India. Subsequently, he signed the Instrument of Accession on October 26, 1947.
The terms of Kashmir’s accession became contentious immediately. Article 370 emerged as a temporary provision. It preserved specific terms under which Kashmir agreed to join India. However, this temporary measure continued for seven decades. Finally, in August 2019, the Modi government abrogated Article 370.
Post-2014 Transformation of Kashmir Policy
Prime Minister Modi highlighted significant changes after 2014. His government demonstrated the iron will that Sardar Patel embodied. Today, Kashmir has completely integrated with India’s mainstream. Article 370’s shackles have been broken permanently. Even Pakistan and terrorism handlers recognize India’s true strength now.
The Prime Minister referenced Operation Sindoor as evidence of new India’s resolve. This operation occurred in May 2025 following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. On April 22, 2025, terrorists killed 26 innocent tourists. They segregated victims based on religion before killing them. Therefore, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025.
“This is a message to our enemies: this is the India of Sardar Patel. A nation that never compromises on its security or dignity.”
Operation Sindoor targeted nine terrorist training camps in Pakistan. The strikes were precise, non-escalatory, and focused exclusively on terrorist infrastructure. Over 100 terrorists, trainers, and handlers were eliminated. Most belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Pakistan’s subsequent missile and drone attacks were successfully thwarted. India’s integrated air defense systems proved highly effective.
National Unity Day: Significance and Celebrations
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas has been observed since 2014. The Government of India established this day to honor Sardar Patel. It celebrates his pivotal role in fostering national integration. The day underscores the importance of maintaining sovereignty and integrity. Citizens pledge their commitment to unity in diversity.
The 2025 celebrations held special significance. This year marked Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary. A year-long nationwide commemoration was planned. The government released a commemorative coin of Rs 150 denomination. Additionally, a special stamp was issued honoring Patel’s legacy.
The Run for Unity became a prominent feature of celebrations. Thousands participated in marathons across major cities nationwide. The event symbolizes collective strides toward national cohesion. Moreover, it transforms national integration from ceremonial observance into a people’s movement.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Initiative
Prime Minister Modi launched Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat on October 31, 2015. This initiative embodies Sardar Patel’s vision of united India. It promotes cultural exchange among States and Union Territories. The program celebrates India’s diversity through interaction and reciprocity.
The 2025 theme emphasized “Ek Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” This reflects both Patel’s vision and contemporary India’s ambitions. The theme connects national integration with self-reliance goals. Furthermore, it aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. India aims to become developed, harmonious, and resilient by 2047.
Congress Inherited Slave Mentality: Modi’s Attack
Prime Minister Modi launched scathing criticism against Congress. He stated that Congress inherited its party from the British. Moreover, they internalized the slave mentality as well. This criticism came during discussions about Kashmir policies. Modi emphasized how Congress mistakes caused decades of suffering.
The Prime Minister contrasted Patel’s vision with Nehru’s decisions. Patel wanted complete integration of all princely states. His approach combined diplomacy with decisive action when necessary. However, Nehru’s idealism on Kashmir created lasting problems. Article 370 became a symbol of incomplete integration.
Modern India’s Security Doctrine
The Prime Minister outlined India’s contemporary security stance. After 2014, India witnessed renewed national resolve. The country demonstrated capability to strike terrorists anywhere. Even entering enemy territory became acceptable under new doctrine. This represents a fundamental shift from previous defensive posture.
India’s response to terrorism has become swift and decisive. The nation refuses to bow to nuclear blackmailing. Those providing shelter to terrorism will not be spared. This message resonates clearly across borders. Operation Sindoor exemplified this new strategic thinking effectively.
Sardar Patel’s Enduring Legacy
Sardar Patel’s contribution to Indian unity remains unparalleled. His diplomatic skills persuaded reluctant princely states to join India. When diplomacy failed, he employed decisive military action. His vision prevented India’s fragmentation into smaller nations. The modern Indian map reflects his tireless efforts.
Patel’s policies on internal security created lasting frameworks. He established the All India Services as India’s steel frame. These services safeguard the country’s unity and integrity. He expected officers to maintain highest integrity standards. His vision of national service continues inspiring generations.
Conclusion: Unity in Diversity Remains Paramount
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas serves as a timeless reminder today. Sardar Patel’s visionary leadership forged united India from diverse states. This foundation continues underpinning the nation’s progress. The observance blends historical reverence with contemporary engagement effectively.
Prime Minister Modi’s revelations about Kashmir sparked important discussions. Understanding historical decisions helps shape future policies. Sardar Patel’s vision of complete integration finally achieved realization. The abrogation of Article 370 completed his unfinished agenda.
The celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas transcends mere commemoration. It actively counters modern divisive forces consistently. The ethos of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” reinforces national integration. Every citizen must pledge to strengthen unity continually. Sardar Patel’s vision demands collective commitment from all Indians.
