Tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel | 17 Dec 2024
Recently, the Indian Prime Minister honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the anniversary of his death, which occurred on 15th December 1950.
- He is widely recognized as the "Iron Man of India" due to his unwavering determination and steadfast approach, and is celebrated as an emblem of national unity and resilience.
- Political Achievements:
- He was instrumental in the Kheda Satyagraha (1918), advocating for tax relief for farmers who suffered crop failures due to drought.
- He spearheaded the opposition during the Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) against an unfair tax hike, which earned him the title "Sardar" in recognition of his leadership.
- He adopted Mahatma Gandhi's vision, leading initiatives such as the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and enduring several imprisonments for his participation.
- He presided over the 1931 Congress session at Karachi, steering the discussions surrounding the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, resolution on Fundamental Rights and National Economic Programme.
- He led the integration of approximately 562 princely states into the Indian Union, ensuring stability and democracy for millions.
- National Civil Services Day, observed on 21st April, commemorates Sardar Patel's 1947 speech in which he referred to civil servants as "the steel frame of India," emphasising their commitment to public service.
- He chaired the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities, and Tribal and Excluded Areas in the Constituent Assembly.
- On 31st October 2018, the Statue of Unity, standing at 182 meters and recognized as the world's tallest statue, was unveiled in Kevadia, Gujarat, in tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
