Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome in Gujarat on Thursday as he arrived in his home state for a two-day visit to participate in the ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) celebrations, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India.
Grand Welcome at Vadodara Airport
Prime Minister Modi was received at the Vadodara airport by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and other senior dignitaries, including the Commissioner and Collector.
Following the warm reception, the Prime Minister proceeded to Ekta Nagar, the site of the Statue of Unity, where he is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for several infrastructure and development projects and inaugurate multiple completed works.
Commemorative Coin and Stamp to Honour Sardar Patel
As part of the celebrations, PM Modi will also release a special commemorative coin of ₹150 denomination and a postal stamp marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
PM to Lead National Unity Day Events
On Friday, the Prime Minister will lead the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations by offering floral tributes to Sardar Patel and administering the Ekta Diwas pledge, reaffirming the spirit of unity and integrity.
This year’s celebration holds special significance, as it coincides with the sesquicentennial year of Sardar Patel’s birth and features a series of cultural programs and a Unity Parade at Ekta Nagar.
Grand Parade Showcasing India’s Diversity
Styled on the lines of the Republic Day parade, the National Unity Day parade will feature contingents from the BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB, along with units from various state police forces.
According to a government statement, highlights will include:
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A BSF marching contingent featuring indigenous Indian dog breeds such as Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds.
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The Gujarat Police Horse Contingent.
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The Assam Police Motorcycle Daredevil Show.
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The BSF Camel Contingent and Camel Mounted Band.
Tableaux Depicting ‘Unity in Diversity’
The parade will also showcase 10 thematic tableaux from various states and organizations, including NSG, NDRF, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Manipur, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Puducherry, all centered around the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’.
The two-day celebrations at the Statue of Unity are expected to draw thousands of visitors and reaffirm India’s commitment to unity, integrity, and nation-building — ideals championed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.