Day 62 – Q 4. ‘Statue of Unity’ is as tall as the person it is dedicated to. Describe the contribution of Sardar Vallabh bhai Patel in the Independence Struggle of India and its unification.
Q.4) ‘Statue of Unity’ is as tall as the person it is dedicated to. Describe the contribution of Sardar Vallabh bhai Patel in the Independence Struggle of India and its unification.
Introduction:
Recently Sardar Patel’s statue was unveiled along the banks of river Narmada by the central government to honour his struggle and contributions towards independence.
Sardar Vallabhai Patel along with C Rajagopalachari can be considered as true Gandhians, who followed the footsteps of Gandhi and former’s contributions in the Independence struggle is no less a feat.
Body:
Patel’s contribution in Independence struggle:
- Led from front in Kheda and Bardoli satyagraha.
- Mobilization of masses.
- Salt Satyagraha and subsequent arrest.
- Role in Civil Disobedience.
- Role in defending fundamental rights and civil liberties during his congress presidency.
- Social work: Untouchability, Women empowerment, Caste discrimination, alcohol ban etc. in Gujarat.
Unification:
After independence, Sardar Patel become India’s first deputy prime minister and first home minister and placed a very significant role in unification of country.
- Accession of princely states into Indian Union.
- Operation Polo.
- Referendum in case of Junagarh.
- Effort to settle refugees fleeing Pakistan.
- Safeguarding and strengthen Civil services.
Note: 1-2 lines explanation is required for each point.
Conclusion:
Sarder Vallabhai Patel was a great son of country whose contribution towards Independence struggle and preventing Balkanization of country is worth mentioning for ages to come. Majority of the credit goes to this tall man, if India is able to maintain its Unity and Integrity till today. For his feat he was fondly known as “Iron Man of India”.
Best Answer: Sreelakshmy Vijayan Uma
