The Rashtriya Ekta Diwas will be observed on 31st October, 2016 with ‘Integration of India’ as the theme. On this occasion various activities are being organised across ministries/departments all over the country.
The Government had decided to observe the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as the ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) on 31st October every year. This occasion provides an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand the actual and potential threats to the unity, integrity and security of our country.
On the occasion, floral tributes will be paid to Sardar Patel across the country. It will be followed by ‘Run for Unity’ involving people from all sections of society to be organised from the National Stadium to the C-hexagon of India Gate.. A Run for Unity will also be organised at the State/District Headquarters involving people from all sections of society, so that a message of national unity permeates to every part of the nation and the society. All the Government Offices, Public Sector Undertakings and other Public Institutions will arrange a pledge taking ceremony to observe the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. A March Past will also be organised in the evening by the police and other agencies.
Various Ministries are also organising activities on the above occasion such as Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendras will organise sports competition in rural areas to engage youth. Ministry of Human Resource Development will organise an essay competition and special programs in schools across the country. The Department of Posts will release a Postage Stamp in memory of Sardar Patel and an exhibition on Sardar Patel is being organised by the Ministry of Culture at National Science Centre, Pragati Maidan. Ministry of External Affairs will organise special programs in major Missions/ Embassies across the world. A mobile exhibition will also be launched at the Red Fort, which will be further taken to all seven regional zones of Ministry of Culture. Besides this, other activities are also being organised to observe Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.