Centre asks states to observe 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' on Sardar Patel's birth anniversary

New Delhi, Oct 16 : The Union government has asked all the states to observe 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' on October 31 to commemorate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has written to the Chief Ministers and others for organising events to administer a pledge, run for unity and march past on the occasion.

"The government observes Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' on October 31 as a special occasion to foster and reinforce the government's dedication to preserve and strengthen unity, integrity, and security of our nation," an official statement said.

Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting to review the preparations for the event. The meeting was also attended by Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Smriti Irani, Piyush Goyal, Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Mahesh Sharma, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, and Hardeep Singh Puri, apart from Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and senior officers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the celebrations between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. in Delhi and offer floral tributes at the portrait of Sardar Patel at Patel Chowk here.

The Prime Minister will also administer the pledge and flag off the 'Run for Unity'. The march past will be held by Central Armed Police Forces and Delhi Police at their respective grounds.

International badminton player P.V. Sindhu, woman cricketer Mitali Raj and hockey player Sardar Singh will participate in a run at the India Gate on the occasion. 

The run will be organised by the Sports Authority of India coaches.