Overview Rashtriya Ekta Diwas , or National Unity Day, is celebrated every year on October 31st to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel . This day symbolizes India’s unity, integrity, and national solidarity. The 2025 celebration is particularly special as it marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel . Significance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas The annual celebrations of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas remind the countrymen of the pivotal role that Sardar Patel played in the formation of an independent India. He united 562 princely states, laying the foundation of modern India. Due to his leadership and unwavering commitment to national unity, Sardar Patel is revered as the “Architect of National Unity and the Iron Man of India.” Key Developments in 2025 Celebrations Grand Parade and Cultural Festival This year’s unique celebrations of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas will include a grand parade and cultural festival in Ekta Nagar, Narmada district, Gujarat . Ekta Nagar , nestled between the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, reflects the concept of “Unity in Diversity” , blending natural beauty with cultural richness. Parade Highlights CAPFs and State Police Forces: Will showcase their skills, discipline, and valor. Women's Participation: The parade will highlight the participation of women police officers and personnel. The Guard of Honor presented to the Prime Minister will be led by a female officer. Awardees: The parade will feature 5 Shaurya Chakra awardees from CRPF and 16 gallantry medal winners from BSF . Animal Contingents: Major attractions will include a marching contingent comprising exclusively Indian breed dogs of the BSF , Gujarat Police’s Horse Contingent, Assam Police’s Motorcycle Daredevil Show, and BSF’s Camel Contingent and Camel Mounted Band. NCC and School Bands: Will add to the grandeur of the ceremony with their eye-catching performances. Tableaux: To emphasize the message of unity in diversity, tableaux from different states and union territories will also be part of the parade. Cultural Program A cultural program organized by the Ministry of Culture will showcase 900 artists performing India’s classical dances, highlighting the rich diversity of our culture and national unity. Participating Forces and Contingents This year’s National Unity Day parade will include contingents from Border Security Force (BSF) , Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) , Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) , Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashstra Seema Bal (SSB) along with police forces from states of Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and the NCC . The parade will also feature cavalry and camel-mounted contingents, demonstrations by indigenous dog breeds and various martial arts and unarmed combat drills. Indigenous Dog Breeds The parade will also feature a marching contingent comprising exclusively Indian breed dogs of the BSF , including Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds , demonstrating their skills. These breeds have made significant contributions as force multipliers during BSF operations, embodying the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat . Recently, at the All India Police Dog Competition, the Mudhol Hound “Riya” won first place and will lead the dog squad in this year’s parade. Tableaux Details This year’s National Unity Day parade will feature 10 tableaux from National Security Guard (NSG) , NDRF , Gujarat , Jammu & Kashmir , Andaman & Nicobar Islands , Manipur , Maharashtra , Chhattisgarh , Uttarakhand and Puducherry , reflecting the theme “Unity in Diversity.” Brass Bands To make this year’s parade more spectacular, brass bands from BSF, CRPF, CISF, SSB, Delhi Police, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir will also participate. UPSC Relevance The celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is relevant for UPSC aspirants as it touches upon themes of national unity, historical figures, cultural diversity, and internal security. Understanding the significance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contributions and the initiatives taken to promote national integration are crucial for the exam. Key Takeaways for UPSC Historical Significance: Sardar Patel's role in integrating princely states. Cultural Diversity: The emphasis on showcasing India's rich cultural heritage. Internal Security: The participation of CAPFs and State Police forces. Government Initiatives: The role of the Ministry of Culture in organizing the event.