Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya paid floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 151st birth anniversary at his official residence, 7 Kalidas Marg, in Lucknow, marking National Unity Day.
Maurya also extended greetings to the people of the country and Uttar Pradesh on the occasion, calling upon citizens to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening national unity, integrity and social harmony.
Describing Patel as an unparalleled symbol of national unity, the Deputy Chief Minister said his determination, courage and diplomatic foresight had brought hundreds of princely states together, playing a decisive role in the creation of a united India.
He said Patel, who served as independent India’s first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, made an invaluable contribution to strengthening the country’s unity, territorial integrity and internal security. His dedication to nation-building and struggles for farmers’ rights continue to inspire generations, he added.
Maurya said Patel’s life embodied patriotism, commitment to duty and firm resolve. His philosophy remains relevant and serves as a source of inspiration for everyone. By translating the principle of unity in diversity into action, Patel laid the foundation of a strong and united India, he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several initiatives have been undertaken to preserve Patel’s legacy and take his ideals to the people. The Statue of Unity in Gujarat, he said, stands as a symbol of Patel’s extraordinary personality, determination and dedication to the nation.
He urged citizens to visit the Statue of Unity at least once and draw inspiration from Patel’s contribution to nation-building.
Maurya said the present government was working towards realising Patel’s vision and strengthening the resolve of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. Programmes such as the ‘Run for Unity’, organised on National Unity Day, help raise public awareness about national unity, integrity and social harmony while encouraging a spirit of service to the nation.
He called upon people to pledge to protect the country’s unity, integrity and sovereignty and contribute towards building a strong, self-reliant and confident India. Maurya said the true tribute to Patel would be not merely to remember his ideals but to imbibe them and put them into practice in everyday life.
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