Why in news?
The Government of India formed a high‑level committee chaired by the Prime Minister to plan events marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the “Iron Man of India.”
Life and contributions
- Early life: Patel was born on 31 October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat, to a farming family. He studied law and worked as a barrister before entering public life.
- Influence of Mahatma Gandhi: Patel was inspired by Gandhi during the Kheda Satyagraha of 1918, where he helped farmers resist unjust taxation.
- Bardoli Satyagraha: In 1928 he led the peasants of Bardoli in their struggle against increased land revenue. His success earned him the honorific title “Sardar,” meaning leader.
- Role in freedom movement: Patel organised key campaigns such as the Kheda and Bardoli satyagrahas and played an important role in the Civil Disobedience and Quit India movements. He presided over the 1931 Karachi Session of the Indian National Congress.
- Post‑independence architect: As independent India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Patel integrated 562 princely states into the Union, reducing them to manageable administrative units. He also helped create the Indian Administrative Service and stabilised law and order during Partition.
Conclusion: Sardar Patel’s leadership in unifying India and building its administrative machinery makes him one of the country’s most revered statesmen. The 150th anniversary celebrations provide an opportunity to revisit his legacy and learn from his commitment to national integration.