Rashtriya Ekta Diwas – A Pillar of National Cohesion

IN NEWS: Rashtriya Ekta Diwas – A Pillar of National Cohesion

Analysis

1. Occasion and Significance
   • Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) is observed annually on 31 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India’s political integration.
   • The 2025 celebration marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, making it a milestone year of historical and national significance.
   • The Prime Minister will participate in celebrations at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, the site of the Statue of Unity.
2. Historical Background
   • Introduced in 2014 to honor Sardar Patel’s contribution to national unity.
   • During the 2015 celebration, the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB)” initiative was announced to promote inter-state cultural and linguistic exchange, thus institutionalizing Sardar Patel’s ideals of unity in diversity.
3. Sardar Patel’s Foundational Role
   • As India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Patel played a decisive role in integrating 560+ princely states into the Indian Union post-1947.
   • He achieved this through diplomacy, persuasion, and firm administration, ensuring territorial integrity and preventing fragmentation.
   • His vision also led to the establishment of the All India Services, regarded as the “Steel Frame of India.”
4. “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” (EBSB) Initiative
   • Launched in 2015 by the Prime Minister on Sardar Patel’s 140th birth anniversary.
   • Objective: To promote cultural exchange, linguistic appreciation, and mutual understanding among states and UTs.
   • Key initiatives include:
     • Bhasha Sangam App – to learn basic phrases in 22 Indian languages.
     • Student Exchange Programs such as Yuva Sangam.
     • Kashi Tamil Sangamam – promoting cultural and spiritual unity.
     • My Bharat Digital Portal & EBSB Quiz Competitions – promoting online citizen engagement.
   • The EBSB Portal documents all such initiatives, turning Rashtriya Ekta Diwas into a year-round movement for national integration.
5. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 Highlights
   • Main Event: 31 October 2025 at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.
   • Parade Composition:
     • 16 State/UT contingents, 4 CAPFs, NCC cadets, BSF dog squad, and camel contingent.
     • Women officers to lead the Guard of Honour.
   • Cultural Program: Over 900 artists will showcase traditional and classical art forms under the theme “Vividhta Mein Ekta” (Unity in Diversity).
   • Extended Celebration: Bharat Parv from 1–15 November 2025, featuring cultural and food festivals culminating in Birsa Munda Jayanti celebrations.
6. Unique Feature – Indigenous Dog Contingent
   • The BSF contingent featuring Rampur and Mudhol Hounds will march for the first time at the Ekta Diwas parade.
   • This reflects the Aatmanirbhar Bharat spirit, highlighting indigenous breeds’ contribution to national security.
7. “Sardar@150 Unity March” Initiative
   • Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports through the My Bharat platform.
   • A two-phase nationwide Unity March (Padyatra) from 31 Oct to 6 Dec 2025, covering 152 km from Karamsad (Sardar Patel’s birthplace) to Statue of Unity.
   • Includes district-level marches, tree plantation drives, women welfare programs, Vocal for Local campaigns, and cultural exhibitions.
   • The initiative aims to engage youth in civic responsibility and foster unity through community participation.
8. “Run for Unity” Nationwide Marathon
   • Conducted across major cities, including Delhi’s Rajghat to Red Fort route.
   • Encourages participation from citizens, students, and uniformed services.
   • Symbolizes collective strides towards unity and patriotism.
9. Relevance in 2025
   • As the nation marks 150 years of Sardar Patel, the observance reinforces his timeless vision of national integration, social cohesion, and unity in diversity.
   • The initiative extends beyond ceremonial celebration—transforming into a nationwide movement for civic participation, environmental consciousness, and inter-cultural harmony.
10. Conclusion
    • Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is not only a tribute to the Iron Man of India but also a reaffirmation of India’s enduring commitment to unity amidst diversity.
    • Through sustained programs like EBSB, Run for Unity, and Sardar@150 Yatra, the observance bridges historical legacy with modern aspirations—strengthening India’s national fabric for a resilient, united, and inclusive future.

Static / Background Information

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950):
  India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister; known as the “Iron Man of India” for his role in uniting the nation post-Independence.
  Architect of the States Reorganisation and All India Services framework.
• Statue of Unity:
  World’s tallest statue (182 m), inaugurated in 2018 at Kevadia, Gujarat, dedicated to Sardar Patel.
• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB):
  Launched in 2015 to promote inter-state cultural, educational, and linguistic exchange.
• My Bharat Platform:
  A digital platform under the Ministry of Youth Affairs for citizen participation in nation-building.

Updated – 30 Oct 2025 ; 12:29 PM | PIB Delhi Source: PIB