On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 149th birth anniversary by placing flowers at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. This occasion, celebrated every year as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day on October 31, included a large event marking Patel’s legacy. PM Modi’s visit to Gujarat spanned two days and featured various tributes and celebrations.

During the event at Kevadia's Unity Parade Ground, PM Modi addressed the gathering, highlighting the special alignment this year between the Diwali festival and National Unity Day. “This National Unity Day has brought about a beautiful convergence," he remarked, noting that Diwali not only lights up India but is also connecting the country with the world. His comments came a day after U.S. President Joe Biden hosted a Diwali celebration at the White House, attended by over 600 Indian American guests.

The Prime Minister also mentioned the increasing global recognition of Diwali as a national celebration in several countries, underlining India’s growing cultural influence internationally.

Addressing the government's proposal for a 'One Nation, One Election' framework, PM Modi shared that this plan, aimed at coordinating elections nationwide within a set period, is progressing rapidly. Having been approved by the cabinet earlier, it is slated for presentation during the Winter Session of Parliament. “This initiative will bolster India’s democratic processes and make better use of resources, paving the way for a developed India,” he stated. Modi also mentioned progress on 'One Nation, One Civil Code,' describing it as a unified, secular legal framework.

On the subject of Article 370, abrogated in 2019, PM Modi asserted that it had been “buried forever,” emphasizing that the unity of the Indian Constitution has now been fully realized. He took a jab at the opposition, criticizing them for what he described as selective adherence to constitutional values and saying that his government's steps to remove Article 370 represented a long-overdue tribute to Patel’s vision.

Highlighting national security, PM Modi said that his administration’s efforts over the past decade have neutralized many threats. “Now, those who would try to harm India know that they will not succeed,” he said, referring to a stronger stance against terrorism. He cited peace-building initiatives in the northeastern states, mentioning agreements like those with the Bodo and Bru-Reang communities, as well as the National Liberation Front of Tripura, which have fostered stability. The border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya has also been largely resolved through dialogue and development, he noted.

Modi further spoke about India’s role on the global stage amid international tensions, pointing to growing partnerships and India’s rise as a "vishwabandhu" or global friend. "In a time when distances are widening between nations, India’s position is unique, creating new alliances,” he remarked, crediting India’s approach to handling domestic and international issues with commitment and resilience.