New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) The celebrations for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on Friday unfolded in a stunning exhibition of patriotism and national pride at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. This event, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honored the birth anniversary of India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, famously known as the Iron Man who united the nation.

The grand festivities commenced early in the morning with PM Modi laying floral tributes at the towering 182-metre Statue of Unity, offering prayers to Patel and reinforcing his vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'. The celebration then transitioned into an elaborate parade, showcasing the strength, discipline, and unity of India’s security and police forces.

The parade included contingents from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), National Security Guard (NSG), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Additionally, police units from Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh participated with immense enthusiasm.

NCC cadets also added youthful energy to the parade.

A highlight of the festivities was the involvement of five Shaurya Chakra awardees from the CRPF and 16 gallantry medal winners from the BSF.

PM Modi received a ceremonial salute from 16 BSF personnel recognized for their gallantry in Operation Sindoor.

The event reached its peak with thrilling displays from the Assam Police’s Motorcycle Daredevils, who captivated the audience with their stunts. The Gujarat Police’s Horse Contingent, the BSF Camel Contingent, and the camel-mounted BSF band added a regal flair to the parade. The CRPF’s Taekwondo and martial arts display set to 'Vande Mataram' embodied the courage and discipline of India's forces.

One of the parade’s most touching moments featured the BSF’s indigenous dog squad, led by Riya, a Mudhol Hound and winner of the All India Police Dog Competition, demonstrating their operational skills. These Indian-bred dogs, including Rampur and Mudhol Hounds, exemplified how traditional breeds are integral to the nation’s security framework.

The cultural showcase included vibrant performances choreographed by esteemed artist Manish Pandey, including a dance titled Vallabh Sardar Hamare performed by NCC cadets. The NDRF and NSG commandos executed synchronized drills and rescue demonstrations, highlighting the nation’s readiness in times of crisis.

Tableaux representing Manipur, Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand infused regional colors into the parade, while school bands and artists delivered patriotic performances celebrating India’s rich cultural tapestry.