Independence Day 2023: Remembering Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the 'Iron Man of India' Who Oversaw Incorporation of Over 550 Princely States Into Indian Union
Among the many revolutionaries was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also popularly known as the 'Iron Man of India'. His contribution to integrating more than 550 princely states into a newly independent India is unforgettable.
India will celebrate its 77th Independence Day on August 15. On this day, the nation remembers the sacrifices of the freedom fighters to free India from British rule. Among the many revolutionaries was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, also popularly known as the 'Iron Man of India', who was an essential figure in the Indian freedom struggle. His contribution to integrating more than 550 princely states into a newly independent India is unforgettable. Patel was an active member of the Indian National Congress and participated in various movements to challenge British rule. Independence Day 2023 Quotes, Jai Hind Slogans & Wishes: Greetings, Sayings, Tiranga Wallpapers, 15th August Images & GIFs To Celebrate Swatantrata Diwas.
Patel was instrumental in organizing protests, boycotts, and civil disobedience campaigns to demand India's independence. Patel's life changed fundamentally after meeting Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in Godhra (1917). He began taking an interest in politics, joined the Congress and became the secretary of the Gujarat Sabha. According to historical records, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel joined Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement. Patel led the Satyagraha movement in Nagpur in 1923 against British law when Gandhi was imprisoned.
Patel got the title of 'Sardar' for his leadership in the Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928. The Bardoli Satyagraha was a successful nonviolent protest against excessive land taxes imposed by the British colonial administration on farmers in the Bardoli region of Gujarat. Patel's leadership in negotiating with the Britishers resulted in the reduction of land taxes. This led to his widespread recognition as 'Sardar'.
After India gained independence in 1947, one of the most significant challenges was integrating over 560 princely states into the newly formed Indian Union. As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, Patel played a pivotal role in convincing the majority of princely states to join the Indian Union. Independence Day 2023 Special: How Indian Armed Forces Grew Since 1947 To Become World's 4th Best and Strongest Military Today.
After Independence, Patel became India's first Deputy Prime Minister, and on the first anniversary of Independence, Patel was appointed as the Home Minister of India. He was also in charge of the States Department and the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. His contributions to integrating princely states and establishing a united, independent India are widely recognized and celebrated.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2023 10:44 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).