Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), is celebrated in India every year on 31 October. This day marks the birth anniversary of India’s first home minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who is also known as the “Iron Man of India”. On this day, we celebrate the achievements of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who is considered to be one of the greatest leaders in Indian history. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a key role in the unification of India after independence in 1947, when the country was divided into two dominions, India and Pakistan.
The government of India organizes a number of events on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, including a national convention on national unity and a run for unity. The purpose of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is to promote national unity and to remind citizens of the importance of working together to build a strong and prosperous nation.
In 2023, Rashtriya Ekta Diwas will be celebrated on Saturday, 31 October. The main event will be held at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, which is a giant statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed affiliated schools to celebrate Rashtriya Ekta Divas in a befitting manner. Towards this end, CBSE has also suggested activities for the day.
Pledge
The schools may administer ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ Pledge in the morning assembly. The text of pledge is enclosed.
Run for Unity
Schools may conduct run for short/ long distance as per their feasibility and convenience. The Run may precede/ coincide with the morning assembly/ zero period/ start of the day in schools preferably at 7-8 am on 31.10.2023. Wherever possible, either at start or end of the Run, Principal/ senior faculty member/ student(s) may speak about role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in national integration. Wherever feasible, families of students/ staff members and local community may also be asked to join the Run. A special outreach attempt may also be made to ensure participation of street children from marginalized areas including Divyang children etc. in the Run.
Activities
The schools may also organize activities like debate, speeches on Sardar Patel’s contribution in uniting India, school assemblies dedicated to Sardar Patel and exhibition on life and contributions of Sardar Patel.
