Since 2014, India has celebrated Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day, on October 31 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also known as the "Iron Man of India."
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was observed for the first time in India on October 31, 2014.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs declared in 2014 that National Unity Day would be observed on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary to honour his contribution to India's independence and unity.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel vigorously promoted the idea of unity at a time when India was divided into princely states and British India.
National Unity Day's goal is to reaffirm Indians' shared unity.