National Unity Day ( Rashtriya Ekta Diwas), 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 Vallabhbhai Patel who had a major role in the political integration of India.
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."
On the day, a pledge is read out in government
offices:
I solemnly pledge that I dedicate
myself to preserving 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 the 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 the internal security of my country.
31 October is also celebrated as
Rashtriya Sankalp Diwas or National Pledge Day as it marks the day of assassination of Indira Gandhi. Several
schools and colleges, especially in Congress-run states, organize rallies and
programmes in remembrance of Indira Gandhi.
