Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), celebrated since 2014, on October 31 every year, pays tribute to the “Iron Man of India” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of the founding leaders of the Republic of India. Various organizations in Nagaland marked the day by organizing events and programs .
NU: Nagaland University (NU), Lumami celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31.
A press release from NU Lumami PRO, Peter Ki stated that a “Run for Unity” was organised on October 31 starting from the University Health Centre and culminating at the university’s I. Ihoshe Kinimi Hall.
In a brief speech, before flagging off the run, professor Pardeshi Lal, vice-chancellor, Nagaland University expounded on the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for the unity and integrity of the country, thus earning the title of “Sardar”.
The “Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge” was led by Dr. Abemo, registrar, Nagaland University in English and by Pardeshi Lal in Hindi. The unity run was attended by teachers, administrative staff and students.
In addition, a debate competition on the topic “Unity in diversity is a myth” was organised. The program was chaired by Monalisa Tase, assistant professor of Political Science, while Dr. Radharani Maibam, assistant professor of Anthropology and Dipika Paul, assistant professor of Sociology, were the judges. The team that stood against the motion emerged as the winners. In the individual category, Suraj Kumar from department of Chemistry was adjudged the best debater. Concluding remarks were given by Neizhanuo Golmei, assistant professor of Political Science.
Sainik School Punglwa: Remembering the service and legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Sainik School Punglwa (SSP) organised a ‘Run for Unity’ on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31.
A press release from SSP stated that the run was flagged off by principal Gp capt, Sharad R Keskar in the early morning. The motive of the run was to spread the message of “Unity in Diversity” and strengthening integrity for a better society. The event witnessed participation by all cadets, staff and officers. Participants ran a distance of 4 kms under the banner “Run For Unity”.
As part of the event, a special assembly was conducted where Cadet Kipa Amak delivered a speech on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Cadets and staff took the “Rashtriya Ekta Diwas” pledge and resolved to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation.