Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday paid rich tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 72nd death anniversary and recalled his contribution to shaping the new India.
The CM offered floral tributes on the statue of Sardar Patel in a programme organised by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Smriti Samaroh Samiti.
Addressing the gathering, Yogi said, “Vallabh Bhai Patel was a great freedom fighter. He was a key contributor to the constitution’s creation when the country gained independence. He is known as an Iron Man who, as a craftsman, provided what ought to be the shape of an independent India.”
He also recalled Patel’s role in bringing together and merging more than 563 princely estates with India after Independence. “There were many princely states, which were in a state of deviation. Everyone is aware of the tricks played by the princely kingdoms of Hyderabad and Junagadh, but because of Sardar Patel’s vision and determination, all of the princely states peacefully merged into India. Its social credit goes only to Sardar Patel.”
The CM said that Sardar Patel played a significant role in creating a new India. “Sardar Patel carried forward the work of bringing reforms to agriculture, livestock, education, and the lives of farmers immediately after independence,” he said.
He said, “I pay homage to him by honouring his memory. His work for the unity and integrity of India will continue to inspire the present and future generations.”
Mayor Sanyukta Bhatia, President of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Smriti Samaroh Samiti Rajeshwari Devi Verma, MLA Shashank Verma, Ashish Singh Ashu, Legislative Council Member Avneesh Singh and many dignitaries were present on the occasion.