Every year, on 31st October, the country celebrates National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas). It is the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the “Iron Man of India.”

He was a brave leader who worked hard to unite India after independence. Before 1947, India was divided into many princely states. Sardar Patel brought them all together to make one strong, united nation. In 2025, this day becomes even more special — it marks 150 years since his birth! Across India, people will remember him through unity runs, speeches, and cultural events that remind us — “We are many, but we are one India.”


Why is National Unity Day Celebrated?

National Unity Day is celebrated to honour Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s great work of uniting India.
After independence, India had more than 560 princely states. Many of them wanted to stay separate. But Patel, with his strong will and wise talks, convinced almost all of them to join the Indian Union.

He proved that “Unity is our strength.”
The Government of India started celebrating this day in 2014 to remind everyone — students, youth, and citizens — that we must stay united and work together for our country.

What are the activities performed in Schools on National Unity Day?

Schools across India, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, celebrate this day with great excitement!
Here are some common activities:

  • Run for Unity: Students take part in a short run or rally carrying flags and posters that say “Ek Bharat – Shreshtha Bharat.”
  • Pledge Ceremony: Everyone takes a Unity Pledge promising to keep our country united and strong.
  • Poster Making and Essay Writing: Students draw or write about national unity, freedom, and Sardar Patel’s life.
  • Skits and Speeches: Many schools stage short plays or speeches showing how Sardar Patel united the country.
  • Quiz Competitions: Questions are asked about the freedom movement and leaders like Sardar Patel.

All these activities help students understand that being united means respecting every culture, religion, and language in India.

National Unity Day Pledge | Ekta Diwas Pledge






Know more about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born on 31 October 1875 in a small village called Nadiad in Gujarat. He was a farmer’s son but became one of the most respected leaders in India.




He worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi and played a key role in India’s freedom struggle. After independence, he became India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.

People called him the “Iron Man of India” because of his strong determination and courage.

Inspiring Quotes by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Sardar Patel’s words continue to inspire every Indian, especially the youth. Here are a few of his powerful and easy-to-remember quotes:

“Manpower without unity is not a strength unless it is harmonized and united properly.”

“Take to the path of Dharma — the path of truth and justice. Don’t misuse your freedom.”

“Every citizen of India must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in this country but with certain duties.”

“Faith is of no evil in absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are essential to accomplish any great work.”

“Work is worship, duty is God — that is the essence of true devotion.”

These quotes remind us that unity, honesty, and hard work are the foundation of a strong nation.


List of Important Books on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

  1.  The Man Who Saved India – Hindol Sengupta
  2. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man of India – Balraj Krishna
  3. India After Gandhi – Ramachandra Guha
  4. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and National Integration – Dr. Ramesh Patel

What Unity Means to Us Today

Unity is not just about living together — it is about standing together. It means respecting people from every state, religion, and language, and helping each other in times of need.

Just like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel united India after independence, we can unite hearts by showing kindness, friendship, and teamwork.
If every student becomes responsible, respectful, and caring, then our classrooms, schools, and our entire nation will remain strong — just the way Patel dreamed.