New Delhi:
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed the police and central security forces across the country to display the picture of first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in their offices. In a directive released on Thursday, the MHA said that along with the picture, Vallabhbhai Patel’s quote ‘we will always keep India's security and unity intact’ will also be a part of the display.
Also, special programs will be held on the occasion of National Unity Day, the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. It is to be noted that National Unity day (also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) is celebrated every year on October 31. The event was introduced by PM Modi-led central government in 2014.
In a letter to state police chiefs, Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla said, that this year''s celebration of National Unity Day has a special significance as it marks the completion of the task of making Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh an integral part of India by abrogating Article 370.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla said, "On this occasion, to recognise the historical contribution of Sardar Patel, as the first Union Home Minister, in laying firm foundations of Indian police and giving it its identity, character and direction, it would be an apt gesture to display the portrait of Sardar Patel along with a message in all offices of CAPFs/CPOs across the country to inspire people and police personnel alike."
The Union Home Secretary further said that the observance of National Unity Day on October 31 serves to reinforce the commitment to strengthen the security, unit and integrity of the country.
"It not only commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of national integration of independent India but also re-affirms the inherent strength and resilience of our people to withstand threats to the security, unit and integrity of the country," Ajay Kumar added.
Bhalla further noted that special events were being undertaken to mark the celebration at National Unity Day. “For the first time, National Unity Day parade with participation from police forces across the country is being organised on October 31 at the Statue of Unity, which will be held every year thereafter,” he said.
"The government of India has instituted a prestigious national award -- Sardar Patel National Unity Award to recognise the tireless and selfless work done by citizens to promote the cause of national unity and integrity and to strengthen the fabric of the country as one nation," the home secretary said while seeking nominations or recommendations for the award which will be given after the parade at the Statue of Unity.
