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National Unity Day 2026: Remembering Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, on his 151st birth anniversary. October 31 is observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to honour his historic contribution to India's unity and integration. (Images: X)
New Delhi: India celebrates National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, every year on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the key architects of modern India. Popularly remembered as the Iron Man of India, Patel played a historic role in bringing hundreds of princely states together after Independence, laying the foundation for a united nation.
In 2026, the country marks his 151st birth anniversary. The occasion is observed through nationwide activities such as the Run for Unity, national unity pledge, educational competitions, cultural programmes and awareness rallies. These events highlight Patel's contribution to India's integration and encourage citizens, particularly the younger generation, to uphold the values of unity, integrity and national security.
- Date: October 31, 2026
- Day: Saturday
- Birth Anniversary: 151st
- Date of Birth: October 31, 1875
- Birthplace: Nadiad, Gujarat
- Popularly Known As: Iron Man of India
- National Observance: Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day)
October 31 holds special significance in India's history as it marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The day is dedicated to remembering his extraordinary contribution to national integration and the formation of a united India.
Following Independence in 1947, India faced the enormous challenge of integrating numerous princely states into the newly independent nation. Patel, who served as the country's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, played a leading role in this process. Through his leadership, political negotiations and firm determination, Patel helped bring hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union. His efforts were instrumental in shaping India's political unity. To honour this historic contribution and promote the spirit of national solidarity, October 31 was designated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.
The Government of India officially announced National Unity Day in 2014 to recognise Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contribution to the country's unity and territorial integration. The first Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations were organised on October 31, 2014. Since then, the occasion has been observed annually across the country through government programmes, public participation and educational activities.
The initiative was introduced to remind citizens of the importance of national unity, integrity and security. It also aims to introduce younger generations to Patel's legacy and his role in building a united India.
Over the years, the Run for Unity and the national unity pledge have become prominent features of the annual observance.
National Unity Day is marked by several public and institutional activities. Government departments, schools, colleges and community organisations organise programmes to spread awareness about national integration.
Here are some of the major activities associated with the celebrations.
1. Run for Unity: A Nationwide Message of Togetherness
The Run for Unity is among the most recognisable activities associated with Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. People from different age groups participate in organised runs and rallies to promote national integration, solidarity and brotherhood.
The event encourages citizens to come together beyond regional, linguistic and cultural differences.
2. National Unity Pledge: A Commitment to India's Integrity
Government employees, officials and representatives of various institutions participate in the National Unity Pledge. Through this pledge, participants reaffirm their commitment to preserving India's unity, integrity and security. It also highlights the responsibility of every citizen in maintaining national harmony.
Educational institutions mark the occasion with activities designed to familiarise students with Sardar Patel's life and achievements. Essay-writing, painting, speech and quiz competitions are commonly organised. These programmes encourage students to learn about India's freedom struggle, the integration of princely states and the importance of national unity.
Cultural events form another important part of National Unity Day celebrations. Performances showcasing India's different traditions, languages, art forms and cultural heritage highlight the country's diversity. The programmes promote the idea that people from different backgrounds can remain united while preserving their individual identities.
Unity marches and public awareness rallies are organised by government bodies and other organisations in several parts of the country. These activities aim to spread awareness about national integration and encourage people to contribute towards a peaceful, united and secure India.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was one of India's most influential freedom fighters and political leaders. Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, he became a prominent figure in India's struggle for Independence. After Independence, Patel served as India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. He was entrusted with the challenging responsibility of integrating princely states into the Indian Union.
His determination, leadership and contribution to national consolidation earned him the title of the Iron Man of India. Patel's legacy continues to hold an important place in India's political history. The Statue of Unity in Gujarat, dedicated to his memory, stands as a major national tribute to his contribution.
"Sardar Patel’s extraordinary life and legacy stand as an enduring testament to the power of national unity, unwavering determination and selfless service. On this solemn occasion, the nation gratefully remembers his monumental contribution to nation-building and pays heartfelt homage to the great visionary whose legacy continues to guide India’s journey towards unity and progress," said C P Radhakrishnan, Vice-President of India.
Paid homage to the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, on his birth anniversary, observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas at Sardar Patel Chowk in New Delhi.
Sardar Patel’s extraordinary life and legacy stand as an enduring testament to the power of national unity, unwavering determination and selfless service.
On this solemn occasion, the nation gratefully remembers his monumental contribution to nation-building and pays heartfelt homage to the great visionary whose legacy continues to guide India’s journey towards unity and progress.
— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) October 31, 2026
National Unity Day is more than an annual remembrance of a historical leader. It serves as an opportunity to reflect on the values that hold the country together. India is home to multiple languages, religions, traditions and cultural identities. National Unity Day reinforces the importance of respecting these differences while maintaining a shared national identity.
The occasion highlights several important messages:
- Protecting India's unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Promoting harmony among people from different communities.
- Remembering Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contribution to national integration.
- Encouraging young people to understand India's history.
- Strengthening the spirit of collective responsibility among citizens.
As India celebrates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 151st birth anniversary on October 31, 2026, National Unity Day once again brings attention to his vision of a united and integrated nation.
