Biswajit rues parochialism denting state's progress
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, October 31 2024: The state government observed "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas" 2024 (National Unity Day) with nationalistic zeal at First Manipur Rifles Parade Ground here on Thursday.

Minister (Power, Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Agriculture, Science and Technology) Thongam Biswajit Singh, as the chief guest, took salute from the march past contingents led by parade commander 3 IRB CO Sarangthem Hemanta Singh and inspected the parade contingents.

Extending wishes to the gathering on "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2024", Biswajit stated that the day is being observed since 2014 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, independence activist and statesman, who served as the first deputy prime minister and home minister of India from 1947 to 1950.Remembering the significant and dedicated works done by Sardar Patel in the unification of the nation, the minister stated that Sardar Vallabh-bhai Patel, as a pure Gandhian, took a major role in the Indian freedom movements.

He revolted drawing sympathy and admiration across India, including amongst pro-British Indian politicians.

His remarkable contributions during the Quit India Movement (1942) and the time of partition of India, implorations to the youngsters to persevere, and promote patriotism in strengthening the unity and diversity of the nation were noteworthy, he added.

Biswajit further recognised Patel's contribution to integrate 565 princely states into a newly independent India, stating that it was total and uncompromising.

His commitment to national integration in the newly independent country earned him the sobriquet "Iron Man of India".

In the year 1991, Sardar 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, the 143rd anniversary of Patel's birth.

The minister then appealed to the public to follow in the footsteps of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to preserve and maintain the tranquillity, unity and diversity of the state and the nation.

He further urged for abandoning any narrow-minded thoughts and any selfish interest.

Instead, all should focus on the bigger picture for joint development of all so as to preserve the state's integrity in the interest of the future generations, he asserted March Past by 15 contingents including the band contingents, and administering of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge were the main highlights of the function.

The observance was also attended by ministers, MLAs, high level civil and police officials and the public.

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