Assam Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi pays tribute to 'Iron Man of India'

GUWAHATI: "Sardar Patel made the biggest contribution to the making of united Bharat. It is his contribution that today people cutting across of all regions, caste, community, language and religions are living in absolute unity in India," said Assam Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi while attending a function held on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the State War Memorial at Dighalipukhuri here on Monday.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukhi said that Sardar Patel played a crucial role in convincing several princely states to join the Indian Union after independence. Due to Patel's decisive role in integrating India, the country is known as Union of India. Rashtriya Ekta Divas is celebrated as a tribute to the contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The merger of more than 560 princely states into India was an impossible task that Sardar Patel had done.

The Governor also said, "Today there is a need to explain to the youth of the country how important unity is for us. As an acknowledgement to the unique unity that our country is enjoying, it is very important to have National Unity Day. This occasion inspires the youth to work to strengthen the cohesiveness of the country."

Mukhi added, "The day is also important for the Indian Administrative Services as Sardar Patel introduced the 'Modern All India Service System' that was formerly known as the Indian Civil Service.

"Peace, prosperity and unity are important for the development of a country. India has a unique feature that people of different castes, religions and sects live here and different languages are spoken in different regions, yet we Indians understand each other well, respect them, and support each other in happiness and sorrow. We are giving and living happily together", the Governor added.

Mukhi also hailed the role of the Defence personnel. Complimenting the men in uniform from Assam and other Northeastern States in infusing the sense of patriotism, the Governor said that since independence soldiers from the region have rendered meritorious and distinguished services. Their heroic achievements during wars and combating cross-border terrorism are commendable. As on today, the State has approximately 39,607 ex-servicemen, 7,614 widows, 112 war widows/veer naris and 78 war disabled.

The Governor said that the Government is ensuring their welfare, rehabilitation and well-being through 19 Zila Sainik welfare offices under Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Assam. The men in uniform irrespective of their caste, creed, religion etc., play an important role in ensuring peace and harmony. The Governor also exuded hope that this unity with the passage of time will become stronger for the country to reach a commendable height.

Mukhi also requested the ex-servicemen to come forward and use their experience for the development of their local areas. He also urged them to help the younger generation to inculcate in them the love for the motherland and the feeling of nationalism in them.

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