On National Unity Day, October 31, we commemorate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, renowned as the ‘Iron Man of India’ for his pivotal role in uniting India and establishing the framework for a modern nation.

1. Early Life and Freedom Struggle

• Early Life and Education: Born on October 31, 1875, in Gujarat, Patel became a barrister and influential political leader.
• Role in Freedom Movements: Played a significant role in non-violent civil disobedience, championing the rights of peasants in Kheda, Bardoli, and Borsad.
• Support for the Quit India Movement: Encouraged widespread involvement in India’s freedom struggle, inspiring future leaders.

2. Sardar Patel: The Great Unifier of India

• Integration of Princely States: Faced with the challenge of over 500 princely states, Patel employed diplomacy, persuasion, and, where necessary, decisive action to integrate them into a united India.
• Collaboration with the Indian Army: Acted as the de facto Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army to handle potential conflicts, notably in Hyderabad.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Hosted gatherings with princely leaders to encourage their cooperation with the new government and constitution, as highlighted by historian Ramachandra Guha.

3. Contributions to Administration

• Establishment of All India Services: Strengthened the “steel frame” of India’s administration by creating and championing the modern All India Services system.
• Legacy as ‘Patron Saint of Civil Servants’: Known for preserving the integrity and structure of India’s administrative and military systems, vital to stable governance.
• Enduring Impact: Recognized for his emphasis on continuity in governance structures, including India’s civil and military frameworks.

4. Contribution to the Indian Constitution

• Chairman of the Advisory Committee: Led the Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities, and Tribal and Excluded Areas, contributing significantly to key constitutional provisions.
• Rights and Duties: Advocated for a balanced approach where rights and duties reinforce each other, emphasizing mutual respect and responsibility among citizens.
• Posthumous Recognition: Awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1991, honoring his lifelong dedication to India’s unity and governance.

5. Statue of Unity – A Tribute to Sardar Patel

• World’s Tallest Statue: The 182-meter-high Statue of Unity, located on Sadhu Island by the Narmada River, symbolizes Patel’s towering legacy.
• Designed by Ram V. Sutar: The statue depicts Patel in traditional attire, honoring his stature and impact on Indian unity and sovereignty.

6. Inspirational Quotes by Sardar Patel

• On Building Character: “There are two ways of building character – cultivating strength to challenge oppression, and tolerate the resultant hardships that give rise to courage and awareness.”
• On Selflessness and National Pride: “Young men and women are to build up strong character. A nation’s greatness was reflected in the character of her people… Selfishness had its place in life…but it could not be the end-all of life.”