LEH, OCT 31: Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) was celebrated with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm across the Union Territory of Ladakh on Saturday to commemorate the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India.
The main function was organised at District Police Lines (DPL), Choglamsar, Leh, where Director General of Police (DGP), Ladakh, Anand Jain, attended as chief guest.
The programme was attended by the I/C DIG, LKR, SSP Leh, senior officers of Police Headquarters, officers of the Prisons Department, representatives of various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), retired police personnel and other distinguished guests.
The celebrations commenced with an impressive Ekta Parade comprising contingents of the CRPF, Rapid Action Force (RAF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Ladakh Police, including male and female personnel. The DGP took the salute and reviewed the parade, reflecting the spirit of unity, discipline and coordination among the participating forces.
He subsequently lit the ceremonial lamp and paid floral tributes to the portrait of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, recalling his invaluable contribution towards the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.
On the occasion, DGP Anand Jain administered the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge to dignitaries, representatives of CAPFs, retired police personnel, civilian guests and officers and officials of Ladakh Police, reaffirming their collective commitment to safeguarding the unity, integrity and security of the nation. The programme concluded with a high tea hosted for the guests and participants.
Similar observances were organised at District Police Kargil, Changthang, Drass and Sham, the 25th Battalion IRP, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters across Ladakh.
At DPL Kargil, SSP Kargil presided over the parade and administered the National Unity Pledge to contingents of District Police and CRPF, emphasising inter-force coordination and commitment towards maintaining law and order.
In Drass, a Unity Day Parade was organised at the Ice Hockey Rink, featuring one platoon each of CRPF and District Police. SP Drass administered the pledge and highlighted the importance of unity, integrity, mutual harmony and brotherhood.
District Police Changthang organised a pledge-taking ceremony at its headquarters under the leadership of SP Changthang, with similar programmes conducted simultaneously at all police stations and posts across the district. Officers and personnel of District Police Sham and the 25th Battalion IRP also reaffirmed their commitment to national unity and integrity.
Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters observed the occasion by reiterating its commitment to the ideals of unity in diversity.
The State Disaster Response Force, Ladakh, also observed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas with patriotic enthusiasm. Officers and personnel took the National Unity Pledge and paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, reaffirming their commitment to national security and selfless public service, particularly during disasters and emergencies.
The district-wide celebrations highlighted the enduring legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and reinforced the importance of national integration, solidarity, communal harmony and collective responsibility in nation-building.
