Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel death anniversary: PM pays tribute to 'Iron Man' of India
New Delhi, December 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the 72nd anniversary of his death on Thursday, recalling the 'Iron Man's' unforgettable contribution to India.
Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister said, "I pay homage to Sardar Patel on his Punya Tithi and recall his everlasting contribution to India, especially in uniting our nation and giving impetus to all-round development."
Patel was born in Nadiad, Gujarat, on October 31, 1875. As a successful lawyer, his life was turned upside down when Mahatma Gandhi chose him as his deputy commander to lead the Kheda Satyagraha in 1918. As the leader of a peasants' protest, Vallabhbhai Patel found his life's path turning towards public service.
Also Read | Shraddha Murder Case: Bones found in Delhi forest match with DNA of victim’s father
Patel was elected President of the Ahmedabad Municipal Board in 1924. When he took over, he overhauled Ahmedabad's drainage, sanitation, cleanliness, and water distribution systems.
Sardar Patel took the oath of office as India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister on August 15, 1947. He was also in charge of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Sardar Patel's life and career are a lesson in grit, sagacity and decisive leadership. He earned the reputation of 'Iron Man' because of how he brought about and maintained internal stability as the Home Minister in the wake of the partition of the country.
On 15 December 1950, the Iron Man of India breathed his last. He had successfully accomplished the task of integrating 565 Princely States into the Union of India within a remarkably short time- a feat unprecedented in history.
Also Read | Bihar: Death toll in Chhapra hooch tragedy mounts to 39
- ANI
