New Delhi, Oct 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off the 'Run For Unity' in New Delhi to mark the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and urged people to take inspiration from his life and work for the country's unity and integrity.
"Unity is our biggest strength," he said addressing the crowds that had gathered at Rajpath, and asserted that unity, peace and harmony were the "mantra" to attain new heights of development.
In his speech, PM Modi also made a veiled attack on the Congress and said, "Sardar Patel never indulged in dynastic politics. He never promoted any family member in his political life."
The day is being celebrated as 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' or National Unity Day to mark the birth anniversary of India's first Deputy Prime Minister. After administering a 'pledge of unity' to the thousands gathered at Rajpath, PM Modi also asked people to remember Sardar Patel's message on unity.
"If our goal is to take Mother India to new heights in the world, then the first condition for that is unity, peace and harmony," he said and added that "If 125 crore Indians will take one step forward with the mantra of unity, peace and harmony, then the country will move 125 crore steps in one go."
"Our strength is a nation bound together by unity and which can sacrifice everything for unity and this is the message of Sardar sahab," he said, recalling that Sardar Patel's life was dedicated to national unity.
The Prime Minister also announced that 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative will be launched soon under which every state will choose another state each year and then promote its language and culture.
"I have formed a small committee which is preparing its modalities," he said.
At the beginning of his speech, PM Modi also remembered former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her death anniversary, saying she sacrificed her life on this day and it cannot be forgotten.
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