National Unity Day (India)

National Unity Day (Hindi: राष्ट्रीय एकता दिवस, romanized: Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, ISO: Rāṣṭrīya ēkatā divasa) is celebrated in India on 31 October. It was introduced by the Government of India in 2014. The day is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar patel who had a major role in the political integration of India.[1][2]

National Unity Day
Commemorative stamp issued on National Unity Day 2016 depicting Statue of Unity and Sardar Patel
Official nameRashtriya Ekta Diwas
TypeNational
SignificanceCelebrating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Date31 October
FrequencyAnnual

Objective and pledge

The official statement for National Unity Day by the Home Ministry of India cites that the National Unity Day "will provide an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand the actual and potential threats to the unity, integrity and security of our country."[3]

On the day, a pledge is read out in government offices:[1]

I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure internal security of my country.

References

Media related to National Unity Day (India) at Wikimedia Commons

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