Why in the News?
The ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be held on 31st October.
About National Unity Day
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Contributions made by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:
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Who Was He? | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31 October 1875 – 15 December 1950) was an Indian independence activist, lawyer, and a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress.
He served as India’s first Deputy PM and Home Minister. |
Role in the Freedom Struggle | • Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Led a non-violent campaign against unjust land revenue tax during a famine. • Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): Organized protests against increased land revenue, earning the title “Sardar.” |
Integration of Princely States | Played a crucial role in integrating over 565 princely states into the Indian Union post-independence using diplomatic skills and firm leadership. |
Establishment of All India Services | Advocated for a unified administrative framework, establishing the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), known as India’s “steel frame.” |
Leadership in the Indian National Congress | Served as President during the Karachi session in 1931, where significant resolutions on Fundamental Rights were passed. |
Constitutional Contributions | Headed committees of the Constituent Assembly on Fundamental Rights and minority rights, contributing to the framing of the Indian Constitution. |
Promotion of National Unity | Advocated “Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat” (One India, Great India), emphasizing unity in diversity to build a cohesive nation. |
Social Reforms | Worked against caste discrimination, untouchability, and alcohol consumption, promoting social justice and women’s rights. |
PYQ:[2011] What was the reason for Mahatma Gandhi to organize a satyagraha on behalf of the peasants of Kheda? 1. The Administration did not suspend the land revenue collection in spite of a drought. 2. The Administration proposed to introduce Permanent Settlement in Gujarat. Which of the statements given above is/ are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2 |