Imphal, Oct 31 (Reporter) “Rashtriya Ekta Diwas” 2024 (National Unity Day) was observed with Nationalistic zeal at the 1st Bn. Manipur Rifles Parade Ground here on Thursday. Minister for Power Thongam Biswajit Singh, the chief guest of the function, remembered the significant and dedicated works done by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the unification of the Nation. The Minister further stated that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, as a pure Gandhian, took a major role in the Indian freedom movements. He revolted and evoke sympathy and admiration across India, including among pro-British Indian politicians. His remarkable contributions during Quit India Movement (1942),during the time of partition of India, his implorations to the youngster to preserve and to promote patriotism in strengthening the unity and diversity of the nation were noteworthy, Singh added. he further stated that, recognizing Patel's contribution to integrate 565 princely states into a newly independent India was total and uncompromising. His commitment to national integration in the newly independent country earned him the sobriquet "Iron Man of India". In 1991, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was adorned with the most prestigious civilian award ‘the Bharat Ratna’, and in remembrance of his significant contributions, the “Statue of Unity” was inaugurated on October 31 2018, on his143rd birth anniversary. Singh appealed to the general public to follow the footsteps of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to preserve and maintain the tranquillity, unity and diversity of the state and the nation. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or the National Unity Day has been observed since 2014 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a statesman, who had served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India from 1947 to 1950, the Minister added. He took salute from the parade contingents led by parade commander Sarangthem Hemanta Singh (MPS),CO 3rd IRB and inspected the parade contingents. Sigh wished the gathering on “Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2024' and revealed the significance of the observation of the very day. Parading of March Past by 15 contingents including the band contingents, and administering of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge led by the Minister were among the part of the function...////...