National Unity Day 2025: Grand Events & Green Drive

India Celebrates National Unity Day with Grand Events and Environmental Initiatives

Why in the News?

India celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) on October 31, 2025, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, highlighting the ideals of national unity, integrity, and strength, while also emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

National Unity Day 2025: Grand Events & Green Drive

National-Level Celebrations at Ekta Nagar:

  • Prime Minister’s Leadership: PM Modi led the National Unity Day celebrations at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat, paying floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and addressing the nation’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Grand Parade: The Ekta Diwas Parade featured contingents from BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, and various state police forces, symbolizing India’s discipline and security strength. The parade also showcased India’s progress in clean energy transitions.
  • Special Features: The parade showcased Indian breed dogs like Rampur and Mudhol Hounds, reflecting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Additionally, displays highlighted sustainable forest management practices across the country.
  • Gallantry Recognition: The event honoured Shaurya Chakra and gallantry medal winners from BSF and CRPF for bravery in anti-Naxal and counter-terror operations, as well as those who contributed to environmental impact assessments in conflict zones.
  • Cultural Showcases: Ten tableaux from states and central agencies, including NSG and NDRF, depicted the theme “Unity in Diversity,” with a special focus on India’s nationally determined contributions to global climate action.

Unity Run and Nationwide Celebrations

  • Mizoram Participation: A Unity Run was organised across Mizoram, including Aizawl, where over 400 participants joined the event, promoting both national unity and awareness about carbon offset projects.
  • District-Level Events: Similar runs and parades took place across all districts to promote national solidarity and environmental consciousness.
  • Organisers: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Department of Sports and Youth Services jointly coordinated these events, incorporating themes of sustainable development.
  • Unity March Initiative: A two-phase Unity March was launched — from October 31 to December 6, 2025, covering districts and villages across India, promoting both national integration and environmental awareness.
  • Community Activities: Drives like cleanliness at water bodies, tree plantations under ‘Sardar Upvan’, health camps, and Vocal for Local campaigns complemented the unity message. These activities also highlighted the importance of the voluntary carbon market and local carbon offset mechanisms.

About Rashtriya Ekta Diwas:
● About Rashtriya Ekta Diwas: Celebrated annually on October 31, it marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the Iron Man of India.
● Objective: To promote national integration, unity, and security among citizens, while also fostering a collective approach to environmental challenges.
● Origin: Instituted in 2014 by the Government of India to commemorate Patel’s role in integrating 562 princely states post-Independence.
● Key Location: The Statue of Unity in Kevadia (Ekta Nagar), Gujarat, stands as the world’s tallest statue at 182 metres, symbolizing not just unity but also India’s commitment to sustainable development.
● Symbolism: Represents India’s unity in diversity, patriotism, collective strength, and shared responsibility towards environmental stewardship.