PM Modi on two-day visit to Gujarat, to lead 150th anniversary celebrations of Sardar Patel

IN NEWS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Gujarat to lead the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The celebrations will take place at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, where the Statue of Unity stands as a symbol of national unity and integrity.

ANALYSIS

1. Commemorative Significance:
   The event marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, who played a pivotal role in the integration of princely states after independence.
2. Developmental Initiatives in Ekta Nagar:
   • The Prime Minister will flag off E-buses in Ekta Nagar to promote eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.
   • Several infrastructural projects will be inaugurated or have their foundation stones laid, aimed at improving connectivity and visitor facilities around the Statue of Unity region.
   • These projects align with the government’s broader objective of developing Ekta Nagar as a global tourism and cultural destination.
3. Symbolism of Ekta Nagar:
   The location holds deep symbolic importance as the Statue of Unity represents Sardar Patel’s vision of a united India. The celebrations are intended to inspire civic nationalism and administrative unity, resonating with Patel’s legacy as the “Iron Man of India.”
4. National Integration and Governance Ethos:
   The event reaffirms the government’s emphasis on nation-building, cooperative federalism, and strengthening the spirit of unity—key principles Patel stood for during the consolidation of modern India.

STATIC PART

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950):
  • Known as the Iron Man of India.
  • Played a crucial role in the integration of over 560 princely states post-independence.
  • Served as India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
  • Advocated for strong administration and unity within the Indian Union.
• Statue of Unity:
  • World’s tallest statue (182 metres).
  • Inaugurated on 31 October 2018 by PM Narendra Modi.
  • Located on the banks of the Narmada River near Kevadia, Gujarat.
  • Developed as part of an integrated tourism circuit including jungle safaris, museums, and eco-parks.
• Ekta Nagar (Kevadia):
  • Renamed to reflect the spirit of unity (Ekta means unity).
  • Emerging as a model eco-tourism and heritage site under the Gujarat government’s development initiatives.

Updated – 29 Oct 2025 ; 08:58 PM | News Source: Deccan Herald