National Unity Day: RRU’s Youth Run for a Stronger India
Newz Daddy Educational Updates
Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) solemnly commemorated National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) and the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, fondly remembered as the “Lauh Purush” or “Iron Man of India,” through a range of academic and community-driven activities held on October 30 and 31, 2025.
National Unity Day in India is celebrated on 31 October to mark Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary; it was introduced in 2014 to reaffirm the unity, integrity and security of the nation. RRU is designated an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Home Affairs and focuses on security studies, internal security, cyber forensics and allied fields.
The commemorative programme commenced on October 30, 2025, with a Poster Making Competition and an Elocution Competition, providing platforms for RRU’s students to engage creatively and intellectually with the theme of unity. The poster competition inspired participants to depict “Unity in Diversity, Harmony, and Nation-Building Spirit,” while the elocution contest focused on “The Role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the Integration of Princely States.” These activities encouraged participants to reflect on Sardar Patel’s pivotal role in consolidating the Indian nation and fostering harmony among its diverse communities.
Sardar Patel played a major role after India’s independence in bringing about the merger of more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union. The idea of “Unity in Diversity” is central to modern India’s ethos and celebrates the many languages, cultures, religions and regions within one nation-state. Sardar Patel’s efforts laid the foundations for this integrated vision.
On October 31, 2025, the celebrations culminated with the ‘Run for Unity’ event, marking National Unity Day. A large contingent of NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, and RRU students joined officers from the Gujarat Police (Dahegam, Rakhiyal, and Dabhoda) for a spirited run from Nehru Chokdi to Rewaba Vidyamandir School, Palaiya, Dahegam, Gandhinagar. This collaborative effort between the University and local law enforcement symbolised the shared responsibility of citizens and institutions in upholding the unity and integrity of the nation. Concurrently, members of the RRU community organised their own Run for Unity on campus, reinforcing their commitment to national integration, health, and physical fitness as vital pillars of national security.
Physical fitness and group events like runs help build discipline, collective spirit and resilience—all important in institutions tied to security and national service like RRU.
Cooperation between educational institutes and law enforcement agencies enables stronger community bonds and supports the objective of a secure and united society—this is aligned with RRU’s mission of “National Security is Supreme.”
Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel’s (Vice Chancellor, Rashtriya Raksha University) guidance in organising the commemorations reflects the University’s continued commitment to the values of unity, integrity, and national service inspired by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. His role in the High-Level Committee for the national celebrations further signifies RRU’s participation in initiatives that promote national unity and collective purpose. The event was graced by the presence of Prof. (Dr.) Kalpesh H. Wandra, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Dr Dharmeshkumar D. Prajapati, Registrar; and Prof. (Dr.) Priyanka Sharma, Dean (Extension). Addressing the participants, Prof. Wandra highlighted the interconnection between physical fitness, discipline, and the nation’s overall security, urging the youth to embody the unity and strength envisioned by Sardar Patel.
University leadership playing visible roles in such events underscores the institution’s responsibility beyond academics—towards values like patriotism, service, and character formation. Sardar Patel’s own legacy emphasised decisive leadership, administrative unity and integration of the states, which helps in building strong national institutions. The celebrations also featured a distinguished lecture by Prof. (Dr.) Kanaiyalal Nayak, Dean and Head, Department of History and Culture, Gujarat Vidyapeeth, on “The Contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to Nation Building.” The lecture provided valuable insights into Patel’s visionary leadership and his monumental efforts in integrating India’s princely states. A documentary screening on Sardar Patel further deepened participants’ appreciation of his legacy.
The integration of princely states required legal, diplomatic and sometimes military action. Patel used instruments of accession and privy purses to persuade rulers, and where needed, firm measures.
Knowledge-building activities like lectures and documentaries help students connect with the historical legacy, enabling them to understand why national unity matters today.
Mr Aditya Purohit, National Security Staff Officer to the Vice Chancellor, addressed the gathering, emphasising the strategic role of RRU as a “Gyan Setu,” a bridge of knowledge for promoting modern policing and national security in the Amrit Kaal era. The observance concluded with the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Pledge, administered to students, faculty, and staff, reaffirming their unified commitment to the ideals of national integrity and service to the nation.
The concept of “Amrit Kaal” refers to India’s upcoming phase of development leading to 2047 (100 years of independence); security, unity and resilience are central in that vision.
Taking a pledge on National Unity Day helps institutionalise the commitment to national values among youth and academic communities.
Through these commemorations, Rashtriya Raksha University paid a heartfelt tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and renewed its dedication to nurturing values of patriotism, discipline, and unity among the youth of India.
Sardar Patel’s legacy remains relevant because he prevented the fragmentation of India, strengthened its union and laid the basis for cooperative federalism. Educational institutions like RRU, by focusing on security, integration and training, contribute to the nation’s stability and unity in subtle yet powerful ways.
