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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on November 01, 2024

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Remembering "IRON MAN OF INDIA"- Sardar Vallabhai Patel

For Preliminary Examination:  Current events of national and international importance

For Mains Examination: GS I - Modern Indian History

Context:

On National Unity Day (October 31) let's reflect on the contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in shaping modern India. Also, don't miss to check some of his inspiring quotes.

Read about:

Sardar Vallabhai Patel and his Contributions towards Indian Constitution

Sardar Vallabhai Patel's famous Quotes

Key takeaways:

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the "Iron Man of India," was a pivotal figure in India's struggle for independence and its post-independence consolidation. Born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, Gujarat, Patel is celebrated for his leadership, administrative skills, and unwavering commitment to national unity. Here’s a closer look at his life and contributions:

Early Life and Legal Career

• Education: Patel pursued law and established a successful legal practice, first in Godhra and then in Ahmedabad.
• Leadership: Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, Patel joined the freedom struggle, giving up his legal career to work for India’s independence.

Role in the Indian Independence Movement

• Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Patel led farmers in the Kheda region against oppressive taxes during a famine. His success here marked his entry into nationalist politics.
• Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): Known as the "Sardar" after this movement, Patel led a non-violent agitation against increased land revenue assessments, achieving a significant victory and solidifying his reputation as a strong, just leader.

Role in Integrating the Princely States

• Post-Independence Challenge: One of Patel's greatest legacies was his role in integrating over 560 princely states into the Indian Union after independence in 1947.
• Negotiation and Strategy: Patel used diplomacy and, where necessary, force to persuade the princely states to join India, ensuring territorial integrity and avoiding potential civil unrest.

Key Contributions

• First Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister: Patel was instrumental in framing India's administrative and security policies, contributing to its nascent political stability.
• Indian Civil Services (ICS) Reforms: He emphasized a professional and dedicated civil service to support India’s governance. His reforms laid the foundation for the modern Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
• National Unity: Patel was a staunch advocate of a united India and opposed policies that could fragment the country. He worked tirelessly for national integration.

Legacy

• Iron Man of India: Patel earned this title for his uncompromising determination and fortitude in unifying India.
• Statue of Unity: The 182-meter-high statue in Gujarat, unveiled in 2018, is a tribute to his contributions, symbolizing his role i