Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the occasion of his birth anniversary, at Patel Chowk in New Delhi on Saturday, October 31, 2015. (Press Trust of India photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off the 'Run For Unity' in New Delhi to mark the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and urged people to take inspiration from his life and work for the country's unity and integrity.
"Unity is our biggest strength," he said addressing the crowds that had gathered at Rajpath, after sharing the stage with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
In his speech, PM Modi also made a veiled attack on the Congress and said, "Sardar Patel never indulged in dynastic politics. He never promoted any family member in his political life."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off the Run for Unity, on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, in New Delhi on Saturday, October 31, 2015. (Press Trust of India photo)
The day is being celebrated as 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' or National Unity Day to mark the birth anniversary of India's first Deputy Prime Minister. After administering a 'pledge of unity' to the thousands gathered at Rajpath, PM Modi also asked people to remember Sardar Patel's message on unity.
"If our goal is to take Mother India to new heights in the world, then the first condition for that is unity, peace and harmony," he said and added that "If 125 crore Indians will take one step forward with the mantra of unity, peace and harmony, then the country will move 125 crore steps in one go."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks with Home Minister Rajnath Singh as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal looks on during the flagging off the Run for Unity. (Press Trust of India photo)
"Our strength is a nation bound together by unity and which can sacrifice everything for unity and this is the message of Sardar sahab," he said, recalling that Sardar Patel's life was dedicated to national unity.
The Prime Minister also announced that 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative will be launched soon under which every state will choose another state each year and then promote its language and culture.
"I have formed a small committee which is preparing its modalities," he said.
At the beginning of his speech, PM Modi also remembered former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary, saying she sacrificed her life on this day and it cannot be forgotten.
Youth wing activists of the Congress party however raised a protest outside the office of the national broadcaster, alleging Doordarshan did not air the tributes paid to India's first woman Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary.