Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 October paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary, honouring India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister as the architect of Akhand Bharat and the Iron Man of the nation. Modi said Patel's sacrifice and dedication continue to serve as a driving force behind the vision of a Viksit (developed) and self-reliant Bharat.

PM Modi's Tribute on X

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: 'On the occasion of his birth anniversary, heartfelt salutations to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of Akhand Bharat and the Iron Man of the nation. He dedicated his life to the creation of a strong, prosperous, and capable India. His sacrifice and dedication in the service of Mother India serve as a profound source of inspiration for building a Viksit (developed) and self-reliant Bharat.'

Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Ministers Remember Patel

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also offered tributes to Patel — India's first Home Minister — and extended greetings to citizens on National Unity Day. In his X post, Shah described Patel as 'the architect of modern India, the symbol of national unity and integrity' and offered 'millions of salutations.'

Shah highlighted Patel's role in weaving hundreds of fragmented princely states into a unified nation after Independence, and credited him with establishing the All India Services, which he said laid 'a robust base to the country's administrative system.' Shah also recalled Patel's leadership in the Kheda and Bardoli Satyagrahas, calling them 'an unparalleled example of public service and leadership.'

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari similarly remembered Patel in a post on X, describing him as 'India's Bharat Ratna, the Iron Man' whose 'work for the nation will continue to inspire for centuries.'

Yogi Adityanath Extends Greetings from Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute and extended greetings to residents of his state on National Unity Day. In a post on X, he said Patel's life 'proclaims this eternal truth that the strength of the nation lies in its unity,' and invoked the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India — Excellent India)' as Patel's enduring legacy.

Why National Unity Day Is Observed on October 31

National Unity Day is observed every year on 31 October to commemorate Patel's birth anniversary and reinforce the message of national unity, integrity and solidarity. Patel's pivotal role in integrating hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union following Independence earned him the title of the 'Iron Man of India' — a legacy that successive governments have invoked to underscore the importance of national cohesion. This year's observance comes at a time when political leaders across parties have been drawing on themes of unity and national development ahead of a busy electoral calendar.