National Unity Day 2025, Theme, Parade, Run for Unity, Pledge

Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day 2025, will be observed on 31 October 2025, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man. The day celebrates Patel’s historic role in unifying more than 560 princely states after independence and promoting peace and integrity. National Unity Day 2025 inspires every citizen to uphold India’s unity in diversity and strengthen the foundation of a secure, harmonious nation.

National Unity Day 2025

National Unity Day 2025 will be celebrated on a grand scale, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat. The celebrations include the Run for Unity, Unity March, and a special Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Parade. This year’s event carries deeper meaning as it marks Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary, accompanied by the release of a ₹150 commemorative coin and special postal stamp. It also coincides with the inauguration of several development projects worth ₹1,140 crore, promoting eco-tourism and green mobility around the Statue of Unity.

National Unity Day 2025 Historical Background

The idea of National Unity Day was first introduced in 2014 by the Government of India to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the country’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Following independence in 1947, Patel faced the mammoth challenge of integrating over 560 princely states, covering nearly 40% of India’s territory and population, into one united nation.

Under the Indian Independence Act of 1947, these states could choose between joining India or Pakistan; or staying independent. Patel used diplomacy, persuasion, and decisive measures through the States Department to ensure integration. By August 15, 1947, almost all states had acceded to India. His leadership saved India from fragmentation and laid the foundation for a strong and unified democracy.

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National Unity Day 2025 Theme 

The theme for National Unity Day 2025 is expected to be “Unity in Diversity: One Nation, One Spirit”, reflecting the shared vision of unity, harmony, and inclusive development. It aligns with Sardar Patel’s enduring ideals of national integrity and collective progress. This year’s observance is not just ceremonial but aims to promote social cohesion and awareness through youth engagement, educational initiatives, and inter-state cultural programs.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born on 31 October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat. He played a decisive role in uniting India after independence. Known as the Iron Man of India. Patel prevented the balkanization of India through diplomacy and resolve. As the architect of Indian unity, he introduced the All India Services, referred to as the “Steel Frame of India,” ensuring administrative stability. His vision continues to guide India’s governance and unity. In 2025, his 150th birth anniversary is being celebrated nationwide with great respect and enthusiasm.

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Initiative

Launched on 31 October 2015 during National Unity Day, the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) initiative embodies Patel’s vision of an emotionally united India. It strengthens connections among States and Union Territories through cultural exchanges, linguistic appreciation, and student interaction. 

Major programs such as Bhasha Sangam App, Kashi Tamil Sangamam, and Yuva Sangam connect citizens across regions. The EBSB Portal documents and promotes these initiatives, ensuring that the message of unity continues beyond National Unity Day. Key objectives of EBSB include:

• Promoting inter-state understanding and cooperation.
• Showcasing India’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
• Building strong emotional bonds among citizens.
• Encouraging youth participation and mutual learning.

National Unity Day 2025 Events

The celebration of National Unity Day 2025 will include several major events reflecting India’s diversity and unity:

• Date of main event: 31 October 2025
• Venue: Ekta Nagar, Gujarat
• Air Show: Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Team
• Parade Units: 16 marching contingents from 9 States and 1 UT, along with 4 CAPFs, NCC cadets, and BSF camel contingents.
• Cultural Program: 900 artists showcasing Indian classical and folk art.
• Floats: From 10 States and Union Territories under the theme “Vividhta Mein Ekta” (Unity in Diversity).
• From 1 to 15 November 2025, Bharat Parv will be celebrated at Ekta Nagar with a food and cultural festival culminating on Birsa Munda Jayanti.

The Sardar@150 Unity March

The Sardar@150 Unity March has been launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports through the My Bharat platform. Beginning on October 6, 2025, it includes essay contests, social media challenges, and the Sardar@150 Young Leaders Program.

The Unity March will take place in two phases:

1. October 31 to November 25, 2025: District-level padyatras and awareness campaigns across India.
2. November 26 to December 6, 2025: A 152-km National March from Karamsad (Patel’s birthplace) to the Statue of Unity, involving NSS, NCC, and My Bharat volunteers.

National Unity Day Parade 2025

The National Unity Day Parade 2025 will be held at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, showcasing India’s rich diversity and unity. The parade will feature contingents from the armed forces, police, and NCC, along with cultural performances from different states. It will also include a special tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, highlighting his role in national integration. The event symbolizes India’s strength in diversity and collective spirit toward nation-building.

National Unity Day 2025 Breed Dog March

A special highlight of the National Unity Day Parade 2025 is the Breed Dog March featuring indigenous Indian breeds like the Rampur Hound and Mudhol Hound. These dogs, trained by the Border Security Force (BSF), represent the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. “Riya,” a Mudhol Hound that won the All India Police Dog Competition, will lead the squad. Their participation symbolizes self-reliance and national security.

National Unity Day 2025 Run for Unity

The Run for Unity, a key feature of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, symbolizes collective strength and unity. On October 31, 2025, thousands of citizens, students, and security personnel will participate in marathons across major cities. In Delhi, the event will start from Rajghat to Red Fort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged every citizen to join this movement in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary.

Statue of Unity

Standing tall at 182 meters, the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, is the world’s tallest statue and a living tribute to Sardar Patel’s unifying spirit. Since its inauguration in 2018, it has attracted over 8 million visitors and generated significant eco-tourism. In 2025, the statue will serve as the centerpiece for the 150th birth anniversary celebrations, hosting major cultural and patriotic events.

National Unity Day 2025 Government Initiatives

The Government of India continues to advance initiatives that promote unity and patriotism:

• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat- Inter-state cultural and linguistic exchange.
• Bharat Parv- Festival celebrating Indian diversity.
• National Integration Council- Fosters social harmony and national stability.
• Digital India and Skill India- Ensure equitable access to development across all regions.

National Unity Day Pledge

Every year, the National Unity Day Pledge is administered in all government offices, schools, and institutions:

“I solemnly pledge that I dedicate myself to preserving the unity, integrity, and security of the nation and also strive hard to spread this message among my fellow countrymen. I take this pledge in the spirit of the unification of my country which was made possible by the vision and actions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. I also solemnly resolve to make my own contribution to ensure the internal security of my country.”

National Unity Day 2025 Global Aspects

National Unity Day 2025 is not only celebrated in India but also across Indian embassies and diaspora communities worldwide. Seminars, exhibitions, and cultural events are being organized in countries like the USA, UK, and UAE to promote India’s message of peace and unity. Sardar Patel’s approach to national integration is studied globally as a model of post-colonial state-building and inclusive governance.

National Unity Day 2025 Challenges

India’s unity continues to face challenges from regional, social, and economic differences. Overcoming these requires awareness, inclusion, and collective national spirit.

1. Regional Disparities
   • Challenge: Unequal development fuels regional imbalance.
   • Way Forward: Promote equal economic opportunities and regional infrastructure growth through balanced state funding and smart city programs.
2. Communal and Social Divisions
   • Challenge: Misinformation and intolerance weaken harmony.
   • Way Forward: Strengthen interfaith education, civic awareness, and cultural exchanges through Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programs.
3. Youth Disengagement
   • Challenge: Lack of participation in nation-building activities.
   • Way Forward: Encourage youth leadership programs and digital engagement promoting unity and social responsibility.
4. Linguistic and Cultural Gaps
   • Challenge: Language and cultural barriers can reduce mutual understanding.
   • Way Forward: Support language learning initiatives, cultural fests, and exchange programs among states.
5. Political Polarization
   • Challenge: Excessive partisanship affects collective goals.
   • Way Forward: Foster cooperative federalism and policy dialogues focused on inclusive national development.

National Unity Day 2025 UPSC

The Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 celebrations will include:

• Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Gujarat on 30-31 October 2025.
• Inauguration of Birsa Munda Tribal University, Hospitality District, E-Bus Depot, and Rain Forest Project worth over ₹1,140 crore.
• Release of a ₹150 commemorative coin and special stamp marking Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary.
• Cultural parade, air show, and Ekta pledge ceremony at the Statue of Unity.
• Recognition of gallantry medal winners and Shaurya Chakra awardees.