National Unity Day, also known as the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is a day celebrated on 31 October every year in India.
The day commemorates the birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, who was instrumental in the integration of the country.
National Unity Day is observed to reinforce the importance of unity and integrity among the citizens of India, stressing on the idea that we are one nation, irrespective of our language, caste, culture, religion, and so on.
This day is dedicated to inspiring all citizens of India to ensure that the nation remains united like a strong fortress in the face of challenges that arise and poses a threat to its integrity.
It seeks to build a sense of patriotism among the citizens and promote the values of unity and integrity.
The day, along with commemorating the birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also celebrates the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice and courage to build and maintain an undivided and prosperous India.
On this day, numerous activities and rallies are organized across India with special emphasis on the youth.
Different schools, colleges, and other educational institutions organize cultural and social activities, sports matches, and even debates and competitions, in order to acquaint the youth with the importance of national unity and to generate a feeling of responsibility among them towards their country.
Special programs are also organized on this day to educate the youth about the historic events that have shaped India’s history and contributed to building and sustaining a strong united nation.
The Prime Minister of India also pays tribute to the great leader and calls for unity and integration of the country.
National Unity Day is thus a great initiative for the people of India to come together in unity to celebrate and remember the efforts of the great leader who unified the country that we live in today.
It is also a day to remember and thank India’s martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country and to remember the efforts of our forefathers who had a vision of an integrated and unified India.