Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Indian PM blamed the 1947 partition for the attack in Pahalgam on April 22 in which 26 people were killed.&nbsp;“When the Partition happened in 1947, the chains should have been cut at that time, but instead, the country was divided into three parts. Soon after, the first terrorist attack was reported in Kashmir, and Pakistan occupied one part of Kashmir," PM Modi said.&nbsp;“If we had killed these Mujahideens; if we had listened to Sardar Patel, he wanted the Army not to stop until we get back PoK,” Modi said.&nbsp;What was Sardar Patel's advice?&nbsp;Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, first Deputy Prime Minister and home minister of India, had argued in 1947 that the Indian Army should not cease its military actions until India reclaims Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). But, PM Modi said, Patel’s “counsel was ultimately disregarded".&nbsp;"In 1947, when Mother India was partitioned into three parts... that very night, the first terror attack occurred on the soil of Kashmir. One part of Mother India was forcibly taken over by Pakistan in the name of 'mujahideen'. On that day, those so-called mujahideen should have been thrown into the pit of death," the PM said.&nbsp;"And it was Sardar Patel's wish that until POK is taken back, the army should not stop. But Sardar Sahib’s words were not followed," PM Modi added.&nbsp;The PM said since Patel's advice was not followed, the bloodshed by these "mujahideen has been continuing for the last 75 years." He also said that the Pahalgam attack was "just a distorted form of the same."&nbsp;'What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947?'&nbsp;Responding to PM Modi's statement, Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged that it was PM Modi's "ideological forefathers" who were critical of Patel.&nbsp;"He has no idea of history or basic democratic courtesy. What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947? They were criticising Patel, burning his effigies, and making cartoons of Sardar Patel, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, the famous cartoon of Ravan with ten heads. Don’t take the PM seriously," Khera said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

'Terrorists should have been dealt with in 1947 but...': PM Modi says Sardar Patel's advice was IGNORED - Here's what he suggested

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Indian PM blamed the 1947 partition for the attack in Pahalgam on April 22 in which 26 people were killed. “When the Partition happened in 1947, the chains should have been cut at that time, but instead, the country was divided into three parts. Soon after, the first terrorist attack was reported in Kashmir, and Pakistan occupied one part of Kashmir," PM Modi said. “If we had killed these Mujahideens; if we had listened to Sardar Patel, he wanted the Army not to stop until we get back PoK,” Modi said. What was Sardar Patel's advice? Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, first Deputy Prime Minister and home minister of India, had argued in 1947 that the Indian Army should not cease its military actions until India reclaims Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). But, PM Modi said, Patel’s “counsel was ultimately disregarded". "In 1947, when Mother India was partitioned into three parts... that very night, the first terror attack occurred on the soil of Kashmir. One part of Mother India was forcibly taken over by Pakistan in the name of 'mujahideen'. On that day, those so-called mujahideen should have been thrown into the pit of death," the PM said. "And it was Sardar Patel's wish that until POK is taken back, the army should not stop. But Sardar Sahib’s words were not followed," PM Modi added. The PM said since Patel's advice was not followed, the bloodshed by these "mujahideen has been continuing for the last 75 years." He also said that the Pahalgam attack was "just a distorted form of the same." 'What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947?' Responding to PM Modi's statement, Congress leader Pawan Khera alleged that it was PM Modi's "ideological forefathers" who were critical of Patel. "He has no idea of history or basic democratic courtesy. What were his ideological forefathers doing in 1947? They were criticising Patel, burning his effigies, and making cartoons of Sardar Patel, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, the famous cartoon of Ravan with ten heads. Don’t take the PM seriously," Khera said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while gathering a pool of people in Gujarat on Tuesday (May 27), said that terrorists in Kashmir should have been dealt with in 1947 itself if Congress had considered the advice of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.&nbsp;

India's Freedom Fighters Do you know about the sacrifices made by Rani Gaidinliu and Birsa Munda? Why were great leaders like Netaji and Sardar Patel sidelined? Watch 'India's Forgotten Heroes'

India's forgotten heroes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute&nbsp;to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India.

"Tribute to Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who laid the foundation of a strong and prosperous India on his death anniversary. The path shown by him will always inspire us to protect the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country," the PM wrote on Twitter (roughly translated from Hindi).

Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Patel, who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of the pre-independent country to build the Republic of India, passed away on December 15, 1950.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India. "Tribute to Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who laid the foundation of a strong and prosperous India on his death anniversary. The path shown by him will always inspire us to protect the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country," the PM wrote on Twitter (roughly translated from Hindi). Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Patel, who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of the pre-independent country to build the Republic of India, passed away on December 15, 1950.

PM Modi pays tribute to Sardar Patel on his death anniversary

Summarising The Unparalleled Legacy Of The Iron Man Of India On His 144th Birth Anniversary.

Gravitas: Remembering Sardar Patel: The man who defined Indian union

India celebrates National Unity Day; Thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'. Watch video to know more.

India celebrates National Unity Day; thousands participate in 'Run for Unity'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-sardar-sarovar-dam-illuminates-with-bright-colours-ahead-of-prime-minister-modis-visit-250086">Sardar Sarovar Dam</a> to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres.

"The dream that Sardar Patel had dreamed of is being fulfilled decades later and that too in front of the grand statue of Sardar Saheb. We have seen the Sardar Sarovar dam full for the first time."

"There was a time when reaching the target of 122 meters was a big deal.&nbsp;But today, within 5 years, it is amazing and unforgettable to see that Sardar Sarovar is filled till 138 meters," he said while addressing people at Sardar Sarovar Dam site.

Watch: How Modi rejuvenates the Indian diaspora worldwide

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"Today is also Vishwakarma jii day. In the resolve to move towards creating a new India, creativity like Lord Vishwakarma and will power to achieve big goals are very important," The Prime Minister said.

Modi, who was in Gujarat on his 69th birthday also offered prayers to the Narmada at the dam site.

He also visited the Control Room of the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

"On one side is the Sardar Sarovar dam, there is electricity-generating equipment. On the other side, there are very beautiful arrangements related to eco-tourism like Ekta Nursery, Butterfly Garden.&nbsp;Amidst all this, a grand statue of Sardar Patel is seen blessing us. Today is the day to express gratitude to all the people who have contributed to this dam," he said.

The dam was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night ahead of his arrival. The Prime Minister said that he will achieve every goal of new India with the inspiration of Sardar Patel.

"Today both the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the world's tallest statue of Sardar Saheb symbolize that willpower.&nbsp;I believe that with his inspiration we will prove every resolve associated with the new India, we will achieve every goal. Today's occasion is also very emotional," he said.

Modi said that the dam is significant for Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for Sardar Sarovar Dam to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said once it was a big deal for Sardar Sarovar Dam to clock 122 metres of water but now its level has reached 138 metres. "The dream that Sardar Patel had dreamed of is being fulfilled decades later and that too in front of the grand statue of Sardar Saheb. We have seen the Sardar Sarovar dam full for the first time." "There was a time when reaching the target of 122 meters was a big deal. But today, within 5 years, it is amazing and unforgettable to see that Sardar Sarovar is filled till 138 meters," he said while addressing people at Sardar Sarovar Dam site. Watch: How Modi rejuvenates the Indian diaspora worldwide × "Today is also Vishwakarma jii day. In the resolve to move towards creating a new India, creativity like Lord Vishwakarma and will power to achieve big goals are very important," The Prime Minister said. Modi, who was in Gujarat on his 69th birthday also offered prayers to the Narmada at the dam site. He also visited the Control Room of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. "On one side is the Sardar Sarovar dam, there is electricity-generating equipment. On the other side, there are very beautiful arrangements related to eco-tourism like Ekta Nursery, Butterfly Garden. Amidst all this, a grand statue of Sardar Patel is seen blessing us. Today is the day to express gratitude to all the people who have contributed to this dam," he said. The dam was illuminated with bright coloured lighting on late Monday night ahead of his arrival. The Prime Minister said that he will achieve every goal of new India with the inspiration of Sardar Patel. "Today both the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the world's tallest statue of Sardar Saheb symbolize that willpower. I believe that with his inspiration we will prove every resolve associated with the new India, we will achieve every goal. Today's occasion is also very emotional," he said. Modi said that the dam is significant for Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra

Amazing, unforgettable to see water touching 138 metres in Sardar Sarovar Dam: PM Modi

After 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019'&nbsp;list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot."

"Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

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Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/TIME?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TIME</a> 100 greatest places 2019 list. 
 
And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. 
 
Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!<a href="https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc">https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc</a> <a href="https://t.co/7xmjWCz9xo">pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1166551420180545536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary.

Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list.&nbsp;

Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot." "Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2019 × PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity' on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary. Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list. Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

Statue of Unity finds spot on TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places'; PM Modi elated

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the Centre has fulfilled the dreams of the country's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the Indian Union.

"We have fulfilled Sardar Patel's dream by making Jammu and Kashmir an inseparable part of India," Shah said addressing IPS probationers at the passing out parade at the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Police Academy in Hyderabad.

Emphasising on the revocation of Art 370, Shah said: "Your (IPS probationers) work has started today. It is an important step as it comes at a time when Article 370 has been abolished under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jammu and Kashmir has become an integral part of India."

BJP chief urged the officer to work in accordance with the Constitution. "Challenges will come to your way and you will get perplexed when you may get orders that may seem unconstitutional but please always work in accordance with the Constitution. Politicians get a chance to work for five years, while you get a chance to serve the country for 30 years," he said.

Congratulating the newly minted IPS officers, he said: "Just becoming an officer cannot be a goal but to take the country to new heights should be your aim."

"An individual's happiness should not be our aim. It should be a prosperous, educated and safe India," he added.

Shah's address comes on a day when a delegation of opposition leaders including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is visiting Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir in order to see the ground reality, days after the Centre abrogated Article 370 from the region.

Parties like Congress, CPI, DMK, RJD, TMC, NCP and JD(S) will be the part of the opposition all-party delegation.

Opposition leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, KC Venugopal, Sitaram Yechury, D Raja, Tiruchi Siva, Manoj Jha, Dinesh Trivedi, Majeed Memon and Kupendra Reddy will be the part of the delegation.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the Centre has fulfilled the dreams of the country's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the Indian Union.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the Centre has fulfilled the dreams of the country's first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the Indian Union. "We have fulfilled Sardar Patel's dream by making Jammu and Kashmir an inseparable part of India," Shah said addressing IPS probationers at the passing out parade at the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Police Academy in Hyderabad. Emphasising on the revocation of Art 370, Shah said: "Your (IPS probationers) work has started today. It is an important step as it comes at a time when Article 370 has been abolished under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jammu and Kashmir has become an integral part of India." BJP chief urged the officer to work in accordance with the Constitution. "Challenges will come to your way and you will get perplexed when you may get orders that may seem unconstitutional but please always work in accordance with the Constitution. Politicians get a chance to work for five years, while you get a chance to serve the country for 30 years," he said. Congratulating the newly minted IPS officers, he said: "Just becoming an officer cannot be a goal but to take the country to new heights should be your aim." "An individual's happiness should not be our aim. It should be a prosperous, educated and safe India," he added. Shah's address comes on a day when a delegation of opposition leaders including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is visiting Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir in order to see the ground reality, days after the Centre abrogated Article 370 from the region. Parties like Congress, CPI, DMK, RJD, TMC, NCP and JD(S) will be the part of the opposition all-party delegation. Opposition leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad, Anand Sharma, KC Venugopal, Sitaram Yechury, D Raja, Tiruchi Siva, Manoj Jha, Dinesh Trivedi, Majeed Memon and Kupendra Reddy will be the part of the delegation.

Fulfilled Sardar Patel's dream by making Jammu and Kashmir inseparable part of India: Amit Shah on abrogation of Article 370

In the first Independence Day speech of his second term, PM Modi said that the government’s decision to repeal Article 370 was a step towards fulfilling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s dream.&nbsp;

Modi said the country had finally achieved the goal of One Nation, One Constitution and every citizen could proudly say the same.

Addressing the nation on the occasion of the 73rd Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort in the national capital, Prime Minister Modi said that the government was doing all it can to help the flood victims. Making note of the removal of Articles 370 and 35 A, constitutional provisions that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, were a step towards realising the dreams of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel.

Hailing the decision, Modi said: “The government is known for not ignoring problems. What couldn't be done in the last 70 years, the new government did in the first 70 days with both Houses passing it with 2/3rd majority.”&nbsp;

He added, “The dreams and aspirations of people of Ladakh and J&amp;K need to be fulfilled and 130 crore people came together for that.”

In the first Independence Day speech of his second term, PM Modi said that the government’s decision to repeal Article 370 was a step towards fulfilling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s dream.

In the first Independence Day speech of his second term, PM Modi said that the government’s decision to repeal Article 370 was a step towards fulfilling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s dream. Modi said the country had finally achieved the goal of One Nation, One Constitution and every citizen could proudly say the same. Addressing the nation on the occasion of the 73rd Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort in the national capital, Prime Minister Modi said that the government was doing all it can to help the flood victims. Making note of the removal of Articles 370 and 35 A, constitutional provisions that accorded special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, were a step towards realising the dreams of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Hailing the decision, Modi said: “The government is known for not ignoring problems. What couldn't be done in the last 70 years, the new government did in the first 70 days with both Houses passing it with 2/3rd majority.” He added, “The dreams and aspirations of people of Ladakh and J&K need to be fulfilled and 130 crore people came together for that.”

Removal of Article 370 step towards fulfilling Sardar Patel's dreams: PM Modi in Independence Day speech

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride. Kevadiya, the town of only 6,800 people that is nearest to the statue on the banks of the Narmada river, has an immediate political significance as well.

While the Hindi belt has officially dominated Indian democratic politics since Independence, the fact is that Gujarat had given three major leaders shaping modern India before Modi came on the scene: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel and Morarji Desai.

Patel welded 562 princely states into a modern republic after Gandhi led the Indian National Congress that spearheaded the movement to win freedom from British rule. Patel's differences with Nehru were healthy and not serious but have provided political ammunition to Nehru bashers six decades later, who act in the belief that the younger generation will see the differences as a deep rift.

Desai came much later but had his own significance. As the prime minister who headed India's first non-Congress government for two years from 1977, Desai was important because his rule came after a brutal Emergency rule under Indira Gandhi. Perhaps even more important, Indira's rise a decade earlier had pitted Desai against her within the Congress before she split the nation's leading party in a populist upsurge backed by a slew of left-wing parties and groups. The Statue of Unity in that sense represents a lineage of differences within the Congress involving towering Gujaratis.

Modi's politics has three different strains. First, is, of course, the Hindutva ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of he has been a long-time soldier. Second is a modern face that stresses clean governance, decisive policy-making and industrialisation. The third and the least spoken about is Gujarati pride.

I have reasons to believe that Modi's attempt to appropriate the late Congress leader, Sardar Patel, despite Patel's criticism of RSS and its ways, is an attempt to project himself in the lineage of a great Gujarati.&nbsp;

Modi knows that no national leader can command a huge following when his own base is not safe. While Gujarat is still under the BJP with Modi's loyalists in power, the last assembly election that saw an eroded party strength and the rise of young anti-BJP leaders like Jignesh Melvani and Hardik Patel showed that he can take nothing for granted in the state that has 26 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. The Statue of Unity in that sense speaks for Gujarati unity in a charged political atmosphere.

Modi needs every trick in the bag to tower over Gujarat. Standing at the foot of a giant statue of Sardar Patel in an interior part of the state has strong visual symbolism. The younger generation will see him not just as a spunky small-town tea-seller who made it big as a national leader in India but as one who belongs in a great lineage. Modi knows that in a dynamically changing India, Hindutva has limited value, and his own 'Moditva' that crafts his own cocktail of a personality cult and a slew of slogans and promises would be vital if he has to maintain his front-running role in a volatile democracy of more than 100 crore people. Locating himself in a grand lineage strengthens the Moditva plank.

In the shifting sands of coalition politics in India, Modi cannot afford to play the hardline Hindu card the way the Bharatiya Janata Party played in the high noon of the Ram Mandir movement in the 1990s. Having tried to register his mark as a modern international leader, he needs 'Moditva' with a populist twist. As things stand, local populism based on Gujarati pride works far better - and is a lot less risky - than any plank that deepens Hindu-Muslim divides. Modi simply cannot afford divisive politics anymore, as he has arrived on the national scene already and stands to gain more from cementing divides than fomenting them.&nbsp;

A healthy regional pride is accepted worldwide more than religious parochialism. The Rs 2,989-crore statue of Patel gives Modi an architectural marvel that stands for many things at once: Gujarati pride, ambition, tradition, novelty and creativity. Even if Modi appears small in front of the statue in carefully crafted photographs, he will be seen by Gujarati youth as an inheritor of values of the Grand Unifier. That hopefully enhances Modi's prospects in his home state, even as the BJP struggles to hold on to power in its other strongholds: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/why-a-giant-sardar-patel-statue-is-a-key-piece-in-pm-modis-political-calculation-2154155.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride.

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride. Kevadiya, the town of only 6,800 people that is nearest to the statue on the banks of the Narmada river, has an immediate political significance as well. While the Hindi belt has officially dominated Indian democratic politics since Independence, the fact is that Gujarat had given three major leaders shaping modern India before Modi came on the scene: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel and Morarji Desai. Patel welded 562 princely states into a modern republic after Gandhi led the Indian National Congress that spearheaded the movement to win freedom from British rule. Patel's differences with Nehru were healthy and not serious but have provided political ammunition to Nehru bashers six decades later, who act in the belief that the younger generation will see the differences as a deep rift. Desai came much later but had his own significance. As the prime minister who headed India's first non-Congress government for two years from 1977, Desai was important because his rule came after a brutal Emergency rule under Indira Gandhi. Perhaps even more important, Indira's rise a decade earlier had pitted Desai against her within the Congress before she split the nation's leading party in a populist upsurge backed by a slew of left-wing parties and groups. The Statue of Unity in that sense represents a lineage of differences within the Congress involving towering Gujaratis. Modi's politics has three different strains. First, is, of course, the Hindutva ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of he has been a long-time soldier. Second is a modern face that stresses clean governance, decisive policy-making and industrialisation. The third and the least spoken about is Gujarati pride. I have reasons to believe that Modi's attempt to appropriate the late Congress leader, Sardar Patel, despite Patel's criticism of RSS and its ways, is an attempt to project himself in the lineage of a great Gujarati. Modi knows that no national leader can command a huge following when his own base is not safe. While Gujarat is still under the BJP with Modi's loyalists in power, the last assembly election that saw an eroded party strength and the rise of young anti-BJP leaders like Jignesh Melvani and Hardik Patel showed that he can take nothing for granted in the state that has 26 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. The Statue of Unity in that sense speaks for Gujarati unity in a charged political atmosphere. Modi needs every trick in the bag to tower over Gujarat. Standing at the foot of a giant statue of Sardar Patel in an interior part of the state has strong visual symbolism. The younger generation will see him not just as a spunky small-town tea-seller who made it big as a national leader in India but as one who belongs in a great lineage. Modi knows that in a dynamically changing India, Hindutva has limited value, and his own 'Moditva' that crafts his own cocktail of a personality cult and a slew of slogans and promises would be vital if he has to maintain his front-running role in a volatile democracy of more than 100 crore people. Locating himself in a grand lineage strengthens the Moditva plank. In the shifting sands of coalition politics in India, Modi cannot afford to play the hardline Hindu card the way the Bharatiya Janata Party played in the high noon of the Ram Mandir movement in the 1990s. Having tried to register his mark as a modern international leader, he needs 'Moditva' with a populist twist. As things stand, local populism based on Gujarati pride works far better - and is a lot less risky - than any plank that deepens Hindu-Muslim divides. Modi simply cannot afford divisive politics anymore, as he has arrived on the national scene already and stands to gain more from cementing divides than fomenting them. A healthy regional pride is accepted worldwide more than religious parochialism. The Rs 2,989-crore statue of Patel gives Modi an architectural marvel that stands for many things at once: Gujarati pride, ambition, tradition, novelty and creativity. Even if Modi appears small in front of the statue in carefully crafted photographs, he will be seen by Gujarati youth as an inheritor of values of the Grand Unifier. That hopefully enhances Modi's prospects in his home state, even as the BJP struggles to hold on to power in its other strongholds: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why a giant Sardar Patel statue is a key piece in PM Modi's political calculation

Congress' social media head Divya Spandana tweeted a controversial comment along with a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi standing next to Sardar Patel's 'Statue of Unity', evoking a sharp reaction from the BJP which slammed it as the "language of arrogance".

Spandana tweeted a picture of Modi standing next to Sardar Patel's 182-metre-tall statue in Gujarat, which was unveiled on Wednesday, with the comment: "Is that bird dropping?"

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Is that bird dropping? <a href="https://t.co/63xPuvfvW3">pic.twitter.com/63xPuvfvW3</a>
— Divya Spandana/Ramya (@divyaspandana) <a href="https://twitter.com/divyaspandana/status/1057842482975817728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Asked about the tweet, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra hit out at the opposition party, alleging that "this is the real culture" of the Congress party. They miss no opportunity to abuse the prime minister of India, he said.

"It is the same party which called the prime minister 'neech'. Shashi Tharoor called him a scorpion and now Divya Spandana says that he is a bird's dropping," Patra said.

"This is nothing but language of arrogance from the Congress party for the normal Indian who with his sheer hardwork become the prime minister of the country," he said.

A normal Indian appears bird's dropping to them, while a dynast is power centre for them, Patra said.

"This is arrogance of dynasty which is abusing the democracy of India," he alleged.

Despite criticism from the ruling party and Twitterati, Spandana remained defiant. "When you're done huffing &amp; puffing take a breath &amp; hold a mirror to yourselves. My views are mine. I don't give two hoots about yours. I'm not going to clarify what I meant and what I didn't cos you don't deserve one," she tweeted.

Congress' social media head Divya Spandana tweeted a controversial comment along with a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi standing next to Sardar Patel's 'Statue of Unity', evoking a sharp reaction from the BJP which slammed it as the "language of arrogance".

Congress' social media head Divya Spandana tweeted a controversial comment along with a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi standing next to Sardar Patel's 'Statue of Unity', evoking a sharp reaction from the BJP which slammed it as the "language of arrogance". Spandana tweeted a picture of Modi standing next to Sardar Patel's 182-metre-tall statue in Gujarat, which was unveiled on Wednesday, with the comment: "Is that bird dropping?" Is that bird dropping? pic.twitter.com/63xPuvfvW3 — Divya Spandana/Ramya (@divyaspandana) November 1, 2018 × Asked about the tweet, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra hit out at the opposition party, alleging that "this is the real culture" of the Congress party. They miss no opportunity to abuse the prime minister of India, he said. "It is the same party which called the prime minister 'neech'. Shashi Tharoor called him a scorpion and now Divya Spandana says that he is a bird's dropping," Patra said. "This is nothing but language of arrogance from the Congress party for the normal Indian who with his sheer hardwork become the prime minister of the country," he said. A normal Indian appears bird's dropping to them, while a dynast is power centre for them, Patra said. "This is arrogance of dynasty which is abusing the democracy of India," he alleged. Despite criticism from the ruling party and Twitterati, Spandana remained defiant. "When you're done huffing & puffing take a breath & hold a mirror to yourselves. My views are mine. I don't give two hoots about yours. I'm not going to clarify what I meant and what I didn't cos you don't deserve one," she tweeted.

Divya Spandana posts controversial comment with PM pic, BJP slams it as 'arrogance'

The first half of 1947 was a critical period in India’s history. The end of colonial rule was certain and so was India’s Partition, but what was uncertain was whether there would be more than one division. Prices were rising, food shortages were common but over and above everything else, the unity of India was under severe strain.

It was in these circumstances that the states department came into being in June 1947. Among the chief aims of this department was to give impetus and top priority to negotiations vis-à-vis India’s relationship with the over 550 Princely States, which were as diverse as they could get, be it in size, population, terrain or economic situation. No wonder Mahatma Gandhi remarked, “The problem of the states is so difficult that you alone can solve it.”

In vintage Sardar Patel style, he went about his work with precision, firmness and administrative efficiency. Time was less and the task was Herculean, but this was no ordinary person, it was Sardar Patel, who was determined not to let his nation down. One by one, he and his team negotiated with the princely states and ensured that they all became a part of free India. It was due to the round the clock effort of Sardar Patel that the map of India is what it is today.

Once freedom was won, VP Menon, it is said, wanted to retire from government service, only to be told by Sardar Patel that this was neither the time to rest nor the time to retire. Such was Sardar Patel’s firm resolve. VP Menon was made the Secretary of the States Department. In his book The Story of the Integration of Indian States, he writes about how Sardar Patel led from the front and inspired the entire team to work assiduously.

On August 15, 1947, we celebrated the dawn of a new destiny, but the work of nation building was far from complete. As independent India’s first home minister, he set the stage for an administrative framework that continues to serve the nation, be it in matters of day to day governance and protecting the interests of the people, particularly the poor and marginalised.

Sardar Patel was a veteran administrator. His own experience in governance, particularly in the 1920s, when he served the Ahmedabad municipality, was extremely handy when he worked towards strengthening independent India’s administrative framework. While in Ahmedabad, he did commendable work in furthering cleanliness in the city. He ensured clean and functioning drainage systems across the city.

Today, if India is known for a vibrant cooperative sector, a large part of the credit goes to Sardar Patel. The roots of Amul can be traced back to his vision for empowering local communities, particularly women. It was Sardar Patel who also popularised the idea of cooperative housing societies, thus ensuring dignity and shelter for many.

Two traits synonymous with Sardar Patel are trust and integrity. The farmers of India had unparalleled faith in him. After all, he was a ‘Kisan Putra’ who led from the front during the Bardoli Satyagraha. The working class saw him as a ray of hope, a leader who would speak up for them. Traders and industrialists preferred to work with Sardar Patel because they felt here was a stalwart who had a vision for India’s economic and industrial growth.

His political peers too trusted him. Acharya Kripalani remarked that whenever they faced an issue and if Bapu’s guidance was not available, they would turn to Sardar Patel. When political negotiations were at their peak in 1947, Sarojini Naidu called him “the man of decision and man of action”.

This year’s Sardar Jayanti is even more special. With the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the ‘Statue of Unity’ is being inaugurated today. Situated on the banks of the Narmada, the ‘Statue of Unity’ is the tallest in the world. ‘Dharti Putra’ Sardar Patel will stand tall in the skies, to guide us and inspire us.

I congratulate all those who have worked day and night to ensure that this grand statue as a tribute to Sardar Patel becomes a reality. My mind goes back to October 31, 2013, when we laid the foundation stone for this ambitious project. In record time, a project of such a scale has become ready and this should make every Indian proud. I urge you all to visit the ‘Statue of Unity’ in the times to come.

The ‘Statue of Unity’ is a symbol of both the unity of hearts and the geographical integrity of our motherland. It is a reminder that divided, we may not be even able to face ourselves. United, we can face the world and scale new heights of growth and glory.

Sardar Patel worked with astonishing speed to dismantle the history of imperialism and create the geography of unity with the spirit of nationalism. He saved India from Balkanisation and integrated even the weakest of limbs into the national framework. Today, we, the 130 crore Indians are working shoulder to shoulder to build a New India that is strong, prosperous and inclusive. Every decision is being taken to ensure that the fruits of development reach the most vulnerable, without any corruption or favouritism, just as Sardar Patel would have wanted it. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-sardar-patel-the-great-unifier-and-maker-of-modern-india-2681050">original article</a>)

The first half of 1947 was a critical period in India’s history. The end of colonial rule was certain and so was India’s Partition, but what was uncertain was whether there would be more than one division.

The first half of 1947 was a critical period in India’s history. The end of colonial rule was certain and so was India’s Partition, but what was uncertain was whether there would be more than one division. Prices were rising, food shortages were common but over and above everything else, the unity of India was under severe strain. It was in these circumstances that the states department came into being in June 1947. Among the chief aims of this department was to give impetus and top priority to negotiations vis-à-vis India’s relationship with the over 550 Princely States, which were as diverse as they could get, be it in size, population, terrain or economic situation. No wonder Mahatma Gandhi remarked, “The problem of the states is so difficult that you alone can solve it.” In vintage Sardar Patel style, he went about his work with precision, firmness and administrative efficiency. Time was less and the task was Herculean, but this was no ordinary person, it was Sardar Patel, who was determined not to let his nation down. One by one, he and his team negotiated with the princely states and ensured that they all became a part of free India. It was due to the round the clock effort of Sardar Patel that the map of India is what it is today. Once freedom was won, VP Menon, it is said, wanted to retire from government service, only to be told by Sardar Patel that this was neither the time to rest nor the time to retire. Such was Sardar Patel’s firm resolve. VP Menon was made the Secretary of the States Department. In his book The Story of the Integration of Indian States, he writes about how Sardar Patel led from the front and inspired the entire team to work assiduously. On August 15, 1947, we celebrated the dawn of a new destiny, but the work of nation building was far from complete. As independent India’s first home minister, he set the stage for an administrative framework that continues to serve the nation, be it in matters of day to day governance and protecting the interests of the people, particularly the poor and marginalised. Sardar Patel was a veteran administrator. His own experience in governance, particularly in the 1920s, when he served the Ahmedabad municipality, was extremely handy when he worked towards strengthening independent India’s administrative framework. While in Ahmedabad, he did commendable work in furthering cleanliness in the city. He ensured clean and functioning drainage systems across the city. Today, if India is known for a vibrant cooperative sector, a large part of the credit goes to Sardar Patel. The roots of Amul can be traced back to his vision for empowering local communities, particularly women. It was Sardar Patel who also popularised the idea of cooperative housing societies, thus ensuring dignity and shelter for many. Two traits synonymous with Sardar Patel are trust and integrity. The farmers of India had unparalleled faith in him. After all, he was a ‘Kisan Putra’ who led from the front during the Bardoli Satyagraha. The working class saw him as a ray of hope, a leader who would speak up for them. Traders and industrialists preferred to work with Sardar Patel because they felt here was a stalwart who had a vision for India’s economic and industrial growth. His political peers too trusted him. Acharya Kripalani remarked that whenever they faced an issue and if Bapu’s guidance was not available, they would turn to Sardar Patel. When political negotiations were at their peak in 1947, Sarojini Naidu called him “the man of decision and man of action”. This year’s Sardar Jayanti is even more special. With the blessings of 130 crore Indians, the ‘Statue of Unity’ is being inaugurated today. Situated on the banks of the Narmada, the ‘Statue of Unity’ is the tallest in the world. ‘Dharti Putra’ Sardar Patel will stand tall in the skies, to guide us and inspire us. I congratulate all those who have worked day and night to ensure that this grand statue as a tribute to Sardar Patel becomes a reality. My mind goes back to October 31, 2013, when we laid the foundation stone for this ambitious project. In record time, a project of such a scale has become ready and this should make every Indian proud. I urge you all to visit the ‘Statue of Unity’ in the times to come. The ‘Statue of Unity’ is a symbol of both the unity of hearts and the geographical integrity of our motherland. It is a reminder that divided, we may not be even able to face ourselves. United, we can face the world and scale new heights of growth and glory. Sardar Patel worked with astonishing speed to dismantle the history of imperialism and create the geography of unity with the spirit of nationalism. He saved India from Balkanisation and integrated even the weakest of limbs into the national framework. Today, we, the 130 crore Indians are working shoulder to shoulder to build a New India that is strong, prosperous and inclusive. Every decision is being taken to ensure that the fruits of development reach the most vulnerable, without any corruption or favouritism, just as Sardar Patel would have wanted it. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article)

Sardar Patel — the great unifier and maker of modern India: A tribute by PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-invokes-never-used-before-powers-to-issue-directions-to-rbi-report-174517">Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report</a>

The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the section on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">rift</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513"> with government: Report</a>

The rift between India's central bank and the government has widened and could lead to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor considering resignation, CNBC TV18 reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

There has been an irreversible breakdown between the RBI Governor Urjit Patel and the government, the media said, adding that all options were on the table.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516">Live updates: Modi to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516">unveil</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-modi-to-unveil-statue-of-unity-today-on-sardar-patels-143rd-birth-anniversary-174516"> Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary</a>

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district.&nbsp;

After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday.&nbsp;

Get all your updates on the story, live, from us.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-visits-pittsburgh-protesters-say-hes-responsible-for-synagogue-shooting-174508">Trump visits Pittsburgh, protesters say he's responsible for synagogue shooting that killed 11</a>

Around 1,500 people took to the streets of Pittsburgh Tuesday to demonstrate peacefully in song against a visit by US President Donald Trump and to mourn 11 Jewish worshipers killed in a synagogue.

The crowd of all ages and faiths, including many young families, children and the elderly, marched for six blocks holding signs that read "President Hate, Leave Our State!" and "Trump's Lies Kill."

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kanye-west-distances-himself-from-politics-says-hes-been-used-174510">Kanye West says he's been 'used', distances himself from politics</a>

Three weeks after a bizarre White House meeting with US President Donald Trump, rapper Kanye West said on Tuesday he was distancing himself from politics.

West, Trump's biggest celebrity supporter, also sought to distance himself from a new campaign that encourages black Americans to quit the Democratic Party.

"My eyes are now wide open and now realize I’ve been used to spread messages I don’t believe in. I am distancing myself from politics and completely focusing on being creative!!!" West tweeted, without mentioning Trump, who is a Republican, or any other names.

Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday.

Government invokes never-used-before powers to issue directions to RBI governor: Report The Indian government has invoked never-used-before powers under the RBI Act allowing it to issue directions to the central bank governor on matters of public interest, the Economic Times reported on Wednesday. Separate letters have been sent to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor in recent weeks, exercising powers under the section on issues ranging from liquidity for non-banking financial companies, capital requirement for weak banks and lending to small and medium enterprises, the report said. RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after rift with government: Report The rift between India's central bank and the government has widened and could lead to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor considering resignation, CNBC TV18 reported on Wednesday, citing sources. There has been an irreversible breakdown between the RBI Governor Urjit Patel and the government, the media said, adding that all options were on the table. Live updates: Modi to unveil Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district. After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday. Get all your updates on the story, live, from us. Trump visits Pittsburgh, protesters say he's responsible for synagogue shooting that killed 11 Around 1,500 people took to the streets of Pittsburgh Tuesday to demonstrate peacefully in song against a visit by US President Donald Trump and to mourn 11 Jewish worshipers killed in a synagogue. The crowd of all ages and faiths, including many young families, children and the elderly, marched for six blocks holding signs that read "President Hate, Leave Our State!" and "Trump's Lies Kill." Kanye West says he's been 'used', distances himself from politics Three weeks after a bizarre White House meeting with US President Donald Trump, rapper Kanye West said on Tuesday he was distancing himself from politics. West, Trump's biggest celebrity supporter, also sought to distance himself from a new campaign that encourages black Americans to quit the Democratic Party. "My eyes are now wide open and now realize I’ve been used to spread messages I don’t believe in. I am distancing myself from politics and completely focusing on being creative!!!" West tweeted, without mentioning Trump, who is a Republican, or any other names.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The imposing monument, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/on-statue-of-unity-inaugeration-here-are-top-five-tallest-statues-in-the-world-174352">touted as the world's tallest statue</a>, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district.&nbsp;

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देश को एकता के सूत्र में पिरोने वाले लौह पुरुष सरदार वल्लभभाई पटेल को उनकी जयंती पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। 
 
We bow to the great Sardar Patel, the stalwart who unified India and served the nation tirelessly, on his Jayanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1057448135960616960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday.

Modi would also inaugurate the 'Wall of Unity' (a monument defining India's unity) near the statue. At that time, three Jaguar fighter jets would fly past the structure at a low altitude, said the release.

After inaugurating the Wall of Unity, Modi would offer floral tributes to Patel, whose birth anniversary falls on October 31. At the same time, two MI-17 helicopters would shower flowers on the statue, it said.

On the occasion, cultural and musical programmes will be performed by the bands of Gujarat Police, armed and paramilitary forces.

There will be dance and musical performances by artistes drawn from 29 states and two Union Territories.

Some of other major attractions include inauguration of a 17-km-long Valley of Flowers, a tent city for tourists near the statue and a museum dedicated to the life and times of Patel.

A viewing gallery at a height of 135 metres has been created inside the statue to enable tourists to have a view of the dam and nearby mountain ranges.

The statue has been built using over 70,000 tonnes of cement, 18,500 tonnes of reinforcement steel, 6,000 tonnes of structural steel and 1,700 metric tonnes of bronze, which was used for the outer cladding of the structure, according to the government statement.

The statue's construction had received opposition from some tribal groups in Narmada district.

Meanwhile, local tribal leaders have announced a boycott of Wednesday's event claiming "mass destruction" of natural resources due to the project.

In an open letter addressed to Modi, sarpanches of 22 villages situated near the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada river have said villagers will not welcome the prime minister when he arrives for the function.

"We villagers want to tell you with extreme grief that we will not welcome you on October 31. Even if you come here like an unwanted guest, you are not welcome here," said the common letter signed by sarpanches of the villages of Narmada district, located around 200 km from Ahmedabad.

The area still lacks basic facilities like schools, hospitals and drinking water, they alleged.&nbsp;

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district. देश को एकता के सूत्र में पिरोने वाले लौह पुरुष सरदार वल्लभभाई पटेल को उनकी जयंती पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। We bow to the great Sardar Patel, the stalwart who unified India and served the nation tirelessly, on his Jayanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 31, 2018 × After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday. Modi would also inaugurate the 'Wall of Unity' (a monument defining India's unity) near the statue. At that time, three Jaguar fighter jets would fly past the structure at a low altitude, said the release. After inaugurating the Wall of Unity, Modi would offer floral tributes to Patel, whose birth anniversary falls on October 31. At the same time, two MI-17 helicopters would shower flowers on the statue, it said. On the occasion, cultural and musical programmes will be performed by the bands of Gujarat Police, armed and paramilitary forces. There will be dance and musical performances by artistes drawn from 29 states and two Union Territories. Some of other major attractions include inauguration of a 17-km-long Valley of Flowers, a tent city for tourists near the statue and a museum dedicated to the life and times of Patel. A viewing gallery at a height of 135 metres has been created inside the statue to enable tourists to have a view of the dam and nearby mountain ranges. The statue has been built using over 70,000 tonnes of cement, 18,500 tonnes of reinforcement steel, 6,000 tonnes of structural steel and 1,700 metric tonnes of bronze, which was used for the outer cladding of the structure, according to the government statement. The statue's construction had received opposition from some tribal groups in Narmada district. Meanwhile, local tribal leaders have announced a boycott of Wednesday's event claiming "mass destruction" of natural resources due to the project. In an open letter addressed to Modi, sarpanches of 22 villages situated near the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada river have said villagers will not welcome the prime minister when he arrives for the function. "We villagers want to tell you with extreme grief that we will not welcome you on October 31. Even if you come here like an unwanted guest, you are not welcome here," said the common letter signed by sarpanches of the villages of Narmada district, located around 200 km from Ahmedabad. The area still lacks basic facilities like schools, hospitals and drinking water, they alleged.

Modi to unveil Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary

The Statue of Unity celebrates Sardar Patel’s contribution in nation building.

Today his life is being limited to the last three years of his life but Patel was much more than that. He was a man of many shades. He remained loyal to both Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Congress party till the end. He tried his best to reconcile Gandhian ideal with the realities of post-independent India where he had to deal with warring political interests and royalties who never wanted to be part of the Indian republic. 
 
Sardar Patel was one of the pillars of the Congress in the freedom struggle. He played an instrumental role in building the Congress party. Sardar Patel not only stoically carried out the instruction of Gandhi but also often stepped aside when Mahatma wanted.

It is for this reason that more than twice Patel could not become the president of the Congress because Gandhi preferred another candidate. Sardar Patel was also instrumental in mobilising funds for the Congress during the colonial struggle. He was neither left-leaning like Nehru and Bose nor a revolutionary and neither communal in his approach when it came to communities. His politics was rooted in the practicality of life. He accepted the social importance of village life, the power of capital, the importance of state violence against adversary and relevance of Gandhian principle at the same time. He was clear and sometimes inconsistent at the same time.&nbsp;

But it was true of almost all leaders as their political views were evolving with changing circumstances.

Sardar Patel’s Bardoli satyagraha was a feat in itself. He not only built the Congress from grassroots in Gujarat but also ensured that Gandhian view strictly imposed on the party which was an umbrella organisation for the majority of people fighting against British colonialism. He neglected his family. He had difference of opinion with both Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru. 
 
He also differed with Gandhi on a number of issues but never allowed it to become an issue. He never left the Congress nor allowed the differences to become a hurdle in penultimate objective; freedom and integration of India into a union of states.

Unfortunately, Sardar Patel’s legacy is being tied to a big if. Patel never saw himself as a victim. Despite&nbsp;difference of opinion and open spat with Nehru, he never challenged his leadership. Patel was not a fallen hero. He remained a Congressman till the end. Many forget that he even banned RSS and went hammer and tong against them. It is a great injustice to call Sardar Patel a leader who had shades of right. He had none.

Today political parties are trying to milk contribution of founding fathers of the republic. The achievements are being limited to the current political narrative. These legacy is being milked for electoral ends. It becomes easier for other political parties as Congress over a period of time turned into a conglomeration of families. The top accommodates Gandhis and rest come thereafter.

It is because of this neglect, Sardar Patel, Bose and Ambedkar are out for the taking today.

It is important to remember that Sardar Patel was the Congress inner circle. He was never an outsider to any decision. He rallied with Gandhi even when others had doubt on Gandhi’s capacity to lead the struggle. Patel’s commitment to the Congress was complete. 
 
He never left the party nor contested any wish of Gandhi nor challenged Nehru once he became the Prime Minister. Bose and Ambedkar had a strained relationship with the Congress. Bose had to start his new outfit as Gandhi ensured that could not continue as the president of the Congress and Ambedkar could never forgive Gandhi for the compromise he made which came to be known as Poona Pact.

Gandhi did not allow castes falling under the Schedule Caste category to be taken out of Hinduism.&nbsp;

The three leaders which BJP wants to adopt had a substantial relationship with the Congress. Only Bose and Ambedkar charted a different course. Sardar Patel never did so.

Patel’s contributions remain many. Without his support, it would have been impossible for Nehru to function in the initial years. It would be impossible for Gandhi to implement his vision on the Congress Party. It would have been very difficult for the party to raise funds for the Congress. Patel was an assurance to the new industry as Nehru was leaning towards left.

Lastly, despite being the first home minister, Patel never created a state with totalitarian powers. He created a strong state without dictatorial leanings. His politics was rooted in the practicality of life that made a difference to both the pre-colonial Congress and modern India. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The Statue of Unity celebrates Sardar Patel’s contribution in nation building. Today his life is being limited to the last three years of his life but Patel was much more than that.

The Statue of Unity celebrates Sardar Patel’s contribution in nation building. Today his life is being limited to the last three years of his life but Patel was much more than that. He was a man of many shades. He remained loyal to both Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Congress party till the end. He tried his best to reconcile Gandhian ideal with the realities of post-independent India where he had to deal with warring political interests and royalties who never wanted to be part of the Indian republic. Sardar Patel was one of the pillars of the Congress in the freedom struggle. He played an instrumental role in building the Congress party. Sardar Patel not only stoically carried out the instruction of Gandhi but also often stepped aside when Mahatma wanted. It is for this reason that more than twice Patel could not become the president of the Congress because Gandhi preferred another candidate. Sardar Patel was also instrumental in mobilising funds for the Congress during the colonial struggle. He was neither left-leaning like Nehru and Bose nor a revolutionary and neither communal in his approach when it came to communities. His politics was rooted in the practicality of life. He accepted the social importance of village life, the power of capital, the importance of state violence against adversary and relevance of Gandhian principle at the same time. He was clear and sometimes inconsistent at the same time. But it was true of almost all leaders as their political views were evolving with changing circumstances. Sardar Patel’s Bardoli satyagraha was a feat in itself. He not only built the Congress from grassroots in Gujarat but also ensured that Gandhian view strictly imposed on the party which was an umbrella organisation for the majority of people fighting against British colonialism. He neglected his family. He had difference of opinion with both Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru. He also differed with Gandhi on a number of issues but never allowed it to become an issue. He never left the Congress nor allowed the differences to become a hurdle in penultimate objective; freedom and integration of India into a union of states. Unfortunately, Sardar Patel’s legacy is being tied to a big if. Patel never saw himself as a victim. Despite difference of opinion and open spat with Nehru, he never challenged his leadership. Patel was not a fallen hero. He remained a Congressman till the end. Many forget that he even banned RSS and went hammer and tong against them. It is a great injustice to call Sardar Patel a leader who had shades of right. He had none. Today political parties are trying to milk contribution of founding fathers of the republic. The achievements are being limited to the current political narrative. These legacy is being milked for electoral ends. It becomes easier for other political parties as Congress over a period of time turned into a conglomeration of families. The top accommodates Gandhis and rest come thereafter. It is because of this neglect, Sardar Patel, Bose and Ambedkar are out for the taking today. It is important to remember that Sardar Patel was the Congress inner circle. He was never an outsider to any decision. He rallied with Gandhi even when others had doubt on Gandhi’s capacity to lead the struggle. Patel’s commitment to the Congress was complete. He never left the party nor contested any wish of Gandhi nor challenged Nehru once he became the Prime Minister. Bose and Ambedkar had a strained relationship with the Congress. Bose had to start his new outfit as Gandhi ensured that could not continue as the president of the Congress and Ambedkar could never forgive Gandhi for the compromise he made which came to be known as Poona Pact. Gandhi did not allow castes falling under the Schedule Caste category to be taken out of Hinduism. The three leaders which BJP wants to adopt had a substantial relationship with the Congress. Only Bose and Ambedkar charted a different course. Sardar Patel never did so. Patel’s contributions remain many. Without his support, it would have been impossible for Nehru to function in the initial years. It would be impossible for Gandhi to implement his vision on the Congress Party. It would have been very difficult for the party to raise funds for the Congress. Patel was an assurance to the new industry as Nehru was leaning towards left. Lastly, despite being the first home minister, Patel never created a state with totalitarian powers. He created a strong state without dictatorial leanings. His politics was rooted in the practicality of life that made a difference to both the pre-colonial Congress and modern India. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Sardar Patel: The man of many shades

The 600-feet '<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/statue-of-unity-worlds-tallest-unveiled-by-pm-modi-as-tribute-to-sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-174548">Statue of Unity</a>' overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam near Vadodara is today the "world's tallest statue" but it was made by a sculptor who is no more than just over 5 foot, 5 inches, aged 93, a man with tall dreams - Ram Vanji Sutar.

The gigantic structure, inaugurated by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pm-narendra-modi-pens-tribute-to-sardar-patel-calls-him-the-maker-of-modern-india-174534">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> as tribute to Sardar Patel on his 143rd birth anniversary, can be gauged by the fact that Patel's feet itself measures a mammoth 80 feet, according to Ram.

As a young man back in the summer of 1947, Ram had a dream, in his own words he says a bird chirped in his ears while he was asleep that he should leave everything and follow his dream, sure enough, he left everything and struck out. Ram has made over 350 Gandhi statues the world over and at over 90 is still going strong.

Ram calls the unique Vallabhbhai statue as his "masterpiece" and a dream come true. Ram painstakingly looked at every detail of the towering leader right from his walk, the clothes he wore, his expressions to his sitting posture. It was a project which started in 2013 and took three and half years to conceive, build and finally to be erected alongside the picturesque dam in Gujarat.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VRoBrf1kulM" width="560"></iframe>

In his career, Ram has seen PMs and President's come and go, some vanish and other's make a mark, he has encapsulated them in his sculptures. His studio in the deepest corner of Noida in Uttar Pradesh showcases his vast array of work from Rajiv, Indira, Rajesh Pilot to a virtual who's who of Indian politics, it can easily be called India's version of Madame Taussads.

"This statue describes Sardar Patel as a strong-willed person," he says proudly. He is helped in his endeavour by his architect son Anil Sutar who combines his father's sculpting expertise with an architect's eye and cutting-edge engineering skills to put together statues which now has become a wonder of the world.

Anil informs quite candidly that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/on-statue-of-unity-inaugeration-here-are-top-five-tallest-statues-in-the-world-174352">massive bronze structure</a> has a "China touch" since it has been assembled there because India does not have a bronze foundry, of course, the father-son duo left nothing to chance spending weeks at a time in China to ensure it was conceived the way they envisioned it back home. It was brought to India in pieces, reassembled and was unveiled on October 31.

"There were statues of Gandhiji including of Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Maulana Azad and other personalities, then it was thought a statue of Sardar Patel was needed in Parliament," he says giving due credit to Patel's contribution in India's freedom struggle and his contribution towards uniting India's princely states. 
&nbsp; 
The Padmashree awardee credits the "Statue of Unity" to PM Modi; "it takes two people - one who thinks about the concept and the other who partners the dream," he declares. 
&nbsp; 
"As a young man, I had thought that I will one day make a life-size statue of Hanumanji in which on his chest Ram and Laxman will be carved, with this statute of Sardar Patel, I think I have achieved my dream," says the proud sculptor.

As the nation pays homage to Vallabhbhai, Ram Sutar too has carved his name in history, forever.

The 600-feet 'Statue of Unity' overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam near Vadodara is today the "world's tallest statue" but it was made by a sculptor who is no more than just over 5 foot, 5 inches, aged 93, a man with tall dreams - Ram Vanji Sutar.

The 600-feet 'Statue of Unity' overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam near Vadodara is today the "world's tallest statue" but it was made by a sculptor who is no more than just over 5 foot, 5 inches, aged 93, a man with tall dreams - Ram Vanji Sutar. The gigantic structure, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as tribute to Sardar Patel on his 143rd birth anniversary, can be gauged by the fact that Patel's feet itself measures a mammoth 80 feet, according to Ram. As a young man back in the summer of 1947, Ram had a dream, in his own words he says a bird chirped in his ears while he was asleep that he should leave everything and follow his dream, sure enough, he left everything and struck out. Ram has made over 350 Gandhi statues the world over and at over 90 is still going strong. Ram calls the unique Vallabhbhai statue as his "masterpiece" and a dream come true. Ram painstakingly looked at every detail of the towering leader right from his walk, the clothes he wore, his expressions to his sitting posture. It was a project which started in 2013 and took three and half years to conceive, build and finally to be erected alongside the picturesque dam in Gujarat. In his career, Ram has seen PMs and President's come and go, some vanish and other's make a mark, he has encapsulated them in his sculptures. His studio in the deepest corner of Noida in Uttar Pradesh showcases his vast array of work from Rajiv, Indira, Rajesh Pilot to a virtual who's who of Indian politics, it can easily be called India's version of Madame Taussads. "This statue describes Sardar Patel as a strong-willed person," he says proudly. He is helped in his endeavour by his architect son Anil Sutar who combines his father's sculpting expertise with an architect's eye and cutting-edge engineering skills to put together statues which now has become a wonder of the world. Anil informs quite candidly that the massive bronze structure has a "China touch" since it has been assembled there because India does not have a bronze foundry, of course, the father-son duo left nothing to chance spending weeks at a time in China to ensure it was conceived the way they envisioned it back home. It was brought to India in pieces, reassembled and was unveiled on October 31. "There were statues of Gandhiji including of Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Maulana Azad and other personalities, then it was thought a statue of Sardar Patel was needed in Parliament," he says giving due credit to Patel's contribution in India's freedom struggle and his contribution towards uniting India's princely states. The Padmashree awardee credits the "Statue of Unity" to PM Modi; "it takes two people - one who thinks about the concept and the other who partners the dream," he declares. "As a young man, I had thought that I will one day make a life-size statue of Hanumanji in which on his chest Ram and Laxman will be carved, with this statute of Sardar Patel, I think I have achieved my dream," says the proud sculptor. As the nation pays homage to Vallabhbhai, Ram Sutar too has carved his name in history, forever.

Meet Ram Sutar, the sculptor who carved Vallabhbhai's 'Statue of Unity'

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel.

Announcing the&nbsp;unveiling of the "Statue of Unity"&nbsp;on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that&nbsp;Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him.

"31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said.

"Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'".

PM&nbsp;Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the&nbsp;leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India".

The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also&nbsp;announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas".

The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel.

Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring."

He also&nbsp;praised the country's soldier saying that "our&nbsp;soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel. Announcing the unveiling of the "Statue of Unity" on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him. "31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said. "Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'". PM Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India". The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas". The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel. Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring." He also praised the country's soldier saying that "our soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". (With inputs from agencies)

On 49th edition of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi hails Patel's contribution to 'united India'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress of spreading lies over the world`s largest statue of Sardar Patel named "Statue of Unity" being built in Gujarat.

&nbsp;"They spread lies on Statue of Unity that it is Made in China. I saw false information in which the Congress President (Rahul Gandhi) equated the Sardar Patel statue with shoes Made in China," Modi was quoted as saying during his interaction with BJP workers through video conferencing via NaMo app.&nbsp;

All these years Congress disrespected Patel, Modi said adding: "How far they will to express their disliking for Sardar Patel?"

Modi`s remarks came two days after Gandhi while addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh`s Satna said that the statue being built for him in Gujarat is "Made in China" like the Made in China written on mobile phones, shirts and shoes.

"Modiji had promised to build the world`s largest statue of Sardar Patel in Gujarat. But later it was revealed that on the back of the statue it was written Made in China," Gandhi said.

In the last four years, the Congress has only spread lies, it has become arrogant, it has drifted away from the people, it has become insensible and it has failed to perform as an opposition, Modi added.

The Statue of Unity, which is 182 metres from the ground and 240 metres from the river base of Narmada, has been completed. The inauguration of the statue will be done on Vallabhbhai Patel`s 143rd birth anniversary on October 31 by the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress of spreading lies over the world`s largest statue of Sardar Patel named "Statue of Unity" being built in Gujarat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress of spreading lies over the world`s largest statue of Sardar Patel named "Statue of Unity" being built in Gujarat. "They spread lies on Statue of Unity that it is Made in China. I saw false information in which the Congress President (Rahul Gandhi) equated the Sardar Patel statue with shoes Made in China," Modi was quoted as saying during his interaction with BJP workers through video conferencing via NaMo app. All these years Congress disrespected Patel, Modi said adding: "How far they will to express their disliking for Sardar Patel?" Modi`s remarks came two days after Gandhi while addressing a public rally in Madhya Pradesh`s Satna said that the statue being built for him in Gujarat is "Made in China" like the Made in China written on mobile phones, shirts and shoes. "Modiji had promised to build the world`s largest statue of Sardar Patel in Gujarat. But later it was revealed that on the back of the statue it was written Made in China," Gandhi said. In the last four years, the Congress has only spread lies, it has become arrogant, it has drifted away from the people, it has become insensible and it has failed to perform as an opposition, Modi added. The Statue of Unity, which is 182 metres from the ground and 240 metres from the river base of Narmada, has been completed. The inauguration of the statue will be done on Vallabhbhai Patel`s 143rd birth anniversary on October 31 by the Prime Minister.

Congress is spreading lies, disrespecting Sardar Patel, says Modi 

&quot;At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom&hellip;. when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance&rdquo;.

The famous Tryst and Destiny speech was addressed by Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru on the eve of Indian Independence when the country was stepping from the old to new.

The two hundred years of colonial power had left India poverty-stricken and disintegrated, and the partition inflicted severe pains of communal violence.

It was not easy to lay the foundation of a country, which had suffered two hundred years of exploitation. The struggle for Independence had already played a major role in unifying the country, but half of the battle was still to be won in laying the foundation for &ldquo;India&rdquo;.

The collective efforts of the first Prime Minister Nehru and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel succeeded in integrating the 567 princely states into the dominion of India. The Congress managed to add Junagarh, Kerala, Hyderabad, Kashmir and many other princely states to India.

It implemented many other policies to reform the social, economic and educational sector of the country. However, amidst the many progressive steps that were undertaken for the improvement of the country, the Congress led by Nehru was also held responsible for the existing ire on Kashmir as well as the enmity between India and Pakistan.

Jammu and Kashmir had voluntarily joined India after Indian army protected the state from the atrocities, loot, murder and rapes committed by Pakistani Kabalis. The then ruling Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Hari Singh had sought help from India after the tribal invasion by Pakistan.

In return, he signed the Instrument of Accession and acceded to be a part of the dominion of India.

&nbsp;However, the issue of Kashmir still remains a bone of contention between India and Pakistan. Pakistan keeps on asking for UN involvement in resolving the matter between the two countries.

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah was also involved in a similar rhetoric recently. While asking for more autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir, the former chief minister of the state emphasised on PoK being part of Pakistan. While readily accepting PoK as part of Pakistan, he said that India cannot claim its authority over it. He reminded that India should stick to the Instrument of Accession signed with Maharaja Hari Singh.

Evidently, off late, Farooq Abdullah has been speaking in the language of Pakistan.

He said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and &quot;this won&#39;t change&quot; no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other.

&quot;You do not remember the Instrument of Accession and claim the other side of Kashmir is administered by Pakistan. If that side is ours, then you should talk about the accession as well. Why do you forget the conditions on which we have acceded?&quot; he said.

Separatists and leaders like him who willfully accept the occupation of Pakistan over PoK choose to avoid the constant revolt by the people against the human right violations.

PoK recently held anti-Pakistan protests across the region to mark 70 years of Pakistan occupation of the region. To mark the unfortunate seventy years of the &ldquo;Black Day&rdquo; invasion, Gilgit and Baltistan held protest across the region on October 22, 2017.

The protestors chanted anti-Pakistan slogans and demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Pakistan Army from the occupied territory.

Another PoK leader Tauqeer Gilani hit out at the Pakistan occupation on Kashmir. While addressing a conference in Muzaffarabad, he questioned Pakistan&#39;s claim over Kashmir. Calling it propaganda by Muslim Conference and their paid stooges, he asked where is it written that Kashmir is Pakistan&#39;s?&nbsp;

He said, &quot;Where is it written that Kashmir is Pakistan&#39;s? No agreement says so. This is nonsense and is propaganda by Muslim Conference and their paid stooges. Even on our bathroom doors, they have written &#39;Kashmir banega Pakistan.&quot;

Recently, the people of Gilgit-Baltistan have strengthened their voice against Pakistan&#39;s immoral imposition of taxes on them. The lawyers claim that the imposition of any tax in the region is illegal as people of the region do not have any representation in national assembly and senate.

Legal experts say that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan should not be taxed until they are granted constitutional rights. They also underlined that there are no taxes in Jammu and Kashmir despite it being part of the Constitution, also that the state provides them subsidies.

Pakistan and its organisations and leaders who constantly attack India over the issue of Jammu and Kashmir should not forget that the peaceful state was first attacked by Pakistan Kabalis. It was Pakistan which had created havoc in one of the most peaceful areas of South Asia.

The ones who talk about India conducting plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir must not forget that according to the UN resolution, Pakistan is first supposed to vacate the place.

&nbsp;Responding to P. Chidambaram&rsquo;s advice for granting greater autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Arun Jaitley had said its position regard to aazadi or greater autonomy for Kashmir was against the national interest.

P Chidambaram recently said when people of Jammu and Kashmir ask for aazadi, most of them mean they want greater autonomy.

On this Jaitley blamed Congress&rsquo;s flawed policy since 1947 for the Kashmir problem.

He asked what kind of &ldquo;aazadi or autonomy&rdquo; is Chidambaram asking which the state government or India&rsquo;s Constitution does not already provide.

Union Finance minister Arun Jaitley also said that the state assembly and the state government have all the necessary powers under the Constitution, and the only issues not covered by the state are defence, communication, foreign affairs and currency.

Recently, a Delhi-based NGO&nbsp; filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging Article 35A. Article 35(A) and Article 370 gives special rights to the permanent residents of Jammu &amp; Kashmir. It restricts people from the rest of the country to buy or own immovable property in Jammu and Kashmir, settle permanently, or avail themselves of state-sponsored scholarship schemes. The petition said that the article discriminates against the fellow citizens from the rest of the country.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

&nbsp;

PoK recently held anti-Pakistan protests across the region to mark 70 years of Pakistan occupation of the region.

"At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom…. when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance”. The famous Tryst and Destiny speech was addressed by Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru on the eve of Indian Independence when the country was stepping from the old to new. The two hundred years of colonial power had left India poverty-stricken and disintegrated, and the partition inflicted severe pains of communal violence. It was not easy to lay the foundation of a country, which had suffered two hundred years of exploitation. The struggle for Independence had already played a major role in unifying the country, but half of the battle was still to be won in laying the foundation for “India”. The collective efforts of the first Prime Minister Nehru and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel succeeded in integrating the 567 princely states into the dominion of India. The Congress managed to add Junagarh, Kerala, Hyderabad, Kashmir and many other princely states to India. It implemented many other policies to reform the social, economic and educational sector of the country. However, amidst the many progressive steps that were undertaken for the improvement of the country, the Congress led by Nehru was also held responsible for the existing ire on Kashmir as well as the enmity between India and Pakistan. Jammu and Kashmir had voluntarily joined India after Indian army protected the state from the atrocities, loot, murder and rapes committed by Pakistani Kabalis. The then ruling Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Hari Singh had sought help from India after the tribal invasion by Pakistan. In return, he signed the Instrument of Accession and acceded to be a part of the dominion of India. However, the issue of Kashmir still remains a bone of contention between India and Pakistan. Pakistan keeps on asking for UN involvement in resolving the matter between the two countries. National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah was also involved in a similar rhetoric recently. While asking for more autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir, the former chief minister of the state emphasised on PoK being part of Pakistan. While readily accepting PoK as part of Pakistan, he said that India cannot claim its authority over it. He reminded that India should stick to the Instrument of Accession signed with Maharaja Hari Singh. Evidently, off late, Farooq Abdullah has been speaking in the language of Pakistan. He said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) belongs to Pakistan and "this won't change" no matter how many wars India and Pakistan fight against each other. "You do not remember the Instrument of Accession and claim the other side of Kashmir is administered by Pakistan. If that side is ours, then you should talk about the accession as well. Why do you forget the conditions on which we have acceded?" he said. Separatists and leaders like him who willfully accept the occupation of Pakistan over PoK choose to avoid the constant revolt by the people against the human right violations. PoK recently held anti-Pakistan protests across the region to mark 70 years of Pakistan occupation of the region. To mark the unfortunate seventy years of the “Black Day” invasion, Gilgit and Baltistan held protest across the region on October 22, 2017. The protestors chanted anti-Pakistan slogans and demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Pakistan Army from the occupied territory. Another PoK leader Tauqeer Gilani hit out at the Pakistan occupation on Kashmir. While addressing a conference in Muzaffarabad, he questioned Pakistan's claim over Kashmir. Calling it propaganda by Muslim Conference and their paid stooges, he asked where is it written that Kashmir is Pakistan's? He said, "Where is it written that Kashmir is Pakistan's? No agreement says so. This is nonsense and is propaganda by Muslim Conference and their paid stooges. Even on our bathroom doors, they have written 'Kashmir banega Pakistan." Recently, the people of Gilgit-Baltistan have strengthened their voice against Pakistan's immoral imposition of taxes on them. The lawyers claim that the imposition of any tax in the region is illegal as people of the region do not have any representation in national assembly and senate. Legal experts say that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan should not be taxed until they are granted constitutional rights. They also underlined that there are no taxes in Jammu and Kashmir despite it being part of the Constitution, also that the state provides them subsidies. Pakistan and its organisations and leaders who constantly attack India over the issue of Jammu and Kashmir should not forget that the peaceful state was first attacked by Pakistan Kabalis. It was Pakistan which had created havoc in one of the most peaceful areas of South Asia. The ones who talk about India conducting plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir must not forget that according to the UN resolution, Pakistan is first supposed to vacate the place. Responding to P. Chidambaram’s advice for granting greater autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Arun Jaitley had said its position regard to aazadi or greater autonomy for Kashmir was against the national interest. P Chidambaram recently said when people of Jammu and Kashmir ask for aazadi, most of them mean they want greater autonomy. On this Jaitley blamed Congress’s flawed policy since 1947 for the Kashmir problem. He asked what kind of “aazadi or autonomy” is Chidambaram asking which the state government or India’s Constitution does not already provide. Union Finance minister Arun Jaitley also said that the state assembly and the state government have all the necessary powers under the Constitution, and the only issues not covered by the state are defence, communication, foreign affairs and currency. Recently, a Delhi-based NGO filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging Article 35A. Article 35(A) and Article 370 gives special rights to the permanent residents of Jammu & Kashmir. It restricts people from the rest of the country to buy or own immovable property in Jammu and Kashmir, settle permanently, or avail themselves of state-sponsored scholarship schemes. The petition said that the article discriminates against the fellow citizens from the rest of the country. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Opinion: Why Pakistan supports Kashmir's aazadi and not that of PoK

India&rsquo;s foreign policy, in its earliest avatar, was built in conformity with Prime Minister Pandit Nehru&rsquo;s vision. It remained so for the next 4 decades. The impression in post-colonial India has been that only Nehru was passionate about foreign affairs and rest in the Congress had different indulgences. If one goes through the correspondence between Patel and Nehru, the latter admits his own enthusiasm about foreign policy, and acknowledge the difference of opinion between him and his peers on many world issues.

Sardar Patel&rsquo;s image, on the other hand, is that of a prisoner of his own success like BR Ambedkar. As Ambedkar&rsquo;s career boils down to the making of the Constitution, Patel&rsquo;s repertoire comes down to the unification of India. &nbsp;

Patel passed away soon after the independence, leaving little or no public imprint of the world-view he espoused in numerous meetings of the Congress before and after independence.

Nonetheless, some of his observations on the United Nations Security Council remain pertinent even today. His views were built on India&rsquo;s early engagement with the UN-- the organisation that epitomised the new world order of the victors of World War II.

&nbsp;As observed by Sardar Patel so many decades ago, India and several other countries continue to face the same dilemma after 70 years. The member countries of the UN have to deal with an archaic and unfair Security Council which on multiple occasions has taken partisan positions on the issue of terrorism and civil conflict.

The matter was best illustrated during Justice Dalbir Singh&rsquo;s election when Britain came down to using the most archaic tool available to them. Britain bowed down under world pressure but the archaic tool persists. Despite world pressure, the United Nation Security Council continues to resist reform.

Sardar Patel&rsquo;s observation three years after its inception shows UN from a different light. We get to see the UN from the perspective of a newly independent nation which is trying to build a republic over a motley body of feudal states.

Sardar Patel in his Nagpur speech on 4th November 1948 said, &quot;You have seen what is happening in Hyderabad. The Nizam says, &#39;I do not want my case in Security Council.&#39; But Security Council says, &#39;We are seized of it.&#39; It is so because they have no other thing to do. Therefore, anything which comes before them, they go on discussing it which disturbs the security here or likely to disturb the security here and thereby it disturbs the security of the world and thus it is proper and fitting thing to call this organization an &ldquo;Insecurity Council&rdquo;. How far it is advisable to be the member of this august Organisation is a question which has to be seriously considered.&rdquo;

Sardar Patel in his speech elaborates further. &ldquo;Take Palestine, take Indonesia, take any question that has been referred to Security Council. It has not been able to dispose them and bring peace; they are all problems which they are not able to settle. So, in one way, the League of Nations was more or less a harmless organization. This organization if it does not improve itself is going to land the world into a terrific slaughter and destruction,&rdquo; he said.

Lastly, in a letter written on 28th March 1950, in response to Nehru&rsquo;s letter dated 26th March, a difference between them on a key issue was recorded. It is an issue which remains alive even today.

Nehru was upset that Sardar had discussed foreign policy with Members of Parliament, making uncharitable comments on his initiatives. Patel&rsquo;s reply was in response to it and the letter said, &ldquo;Some Muslim countries have recognized Israel but we have not done out of deference of the views our Muslim brethren.&rdquo;

Narsimaha Rao in his tenure established full diplomatic relations with Israel and it&rsquo;s no co-incidence which school of thought he belonged to in the Congress.

Coming back to the moot point, Sardar Patel&rsquo;s observation continues to be true for the UN, which behaves as a political body motivated only by national interest of big powers where interests come first and merit later. The romanticism related to the UN exists no more. It needs reforms and tough negotiation from various emerging economies.

I would end by quoting an excerpt from Sardar Patel&#39;s observation on Kashmir. &ldquo;We have seen what price we have paid by going to that Organisation. We went to UN to bring the dispute to an early end and we were maligned all over the world by the representatives of Pakistan. And people who had never seen this country and who did not understand what the problem of India and Pakistan or Kashmir was, - they began to hear the case from people who had no bone in in their tongue. They, therefore, went on talking anything that came into their mouth and for six months, it went on like that. They visited Kashmir, they visited Pakistan, they visited India, and had long and prolonged conversations and discussions. The other party did not. Eventually, they make proposals for cease-fire. The other party did not. Yet we are where we were.&nbsp; If we were to fight this out by armed forces and if United Nations Organisation is not able to do anything then instead of calling it a Security Council, it must be termed the &ldquo;Insecurity Council&rdquo; which disturbs the security of law.&rdquo;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

"...if United Nations Organisation is not able to do anything then instead of calling it a Security Council, it must be termed the ?Insecurity Council? which disturbs the security of law,? said Sardar Patel.

India’s foreign policy, in its earliest avatar, was built in conformity with Prime Minister Pandit Nehru’s vision. It remained so for the next 4 decades. The impression in post-colonial India has been that only Nehru was passionate about foreign affairs and rest in the Congress had different indulgences. If one goes through the correspondence between Patel and Nehru, the latter admits his own enthusiasm about foreign policy, and acknowledge the difference of opinion between him and his peers on many world issues. Sardar Patel’s image, on the other hand, is that of a prisoner of his own success like BR Ambedkar. As Ambedkar’s career boils down to the making of the Constitution, Patel’s repertoire comes down to the unification of India. Patel passed away soon after the independence, leaving little or no public imprint of the world-view he espoused in numerous meetings of the Congress before and after independence. Nonetheless, some of his observations on the United Nations Security Council remain pertinent even today. His views were built on India’s early engagement with the UN-- the organisation that epitomised the new world order of the victors of World War II. As observed by Sardar Patel so many decades ago, India and several other countries continue to face the same dilemma after 70 years. The member countries of the UN have to deal with an archaic and unfair Security Council which on multiple occasions has taken partisan positions on the issue of terrorism and civil conflict. The matter was best illustrated during Justice Dalbir Singh’s election when Britain came down to using the most archaic tool available to them. Britain bowed down under world pressure but the archaic tool persists. Despite world pressure, the United Nation Security Council continues to resist reform. Sardar Patel’s observation three years after its inception shows UN from a different light. We get to see the UN from the perspective of a newly independent nation which is trying to build a republic over a motley body of feudal states. Sardar Patel in his Nagpur speech on 4th November 1948 said, "You have seen what is happening in Hyderabad. The Nizam says, 'I do not want my case in Security Council.' But Security Council says, 'We are seized of it.' It is so because they have no other thing to do. Therefore, anything which comes before them, they go on discussing it which disturbs the security here or likely to disturb the security here and thereby it disturbs the security of the world and thus it is proper and fitting thing to call this organization an “Insecurity Council”. How far it is advisable to be the member of this august Organisation is a question which has to be seriously considered.” Sardar Patel in his speech elaborates further. “Take Palestine, take Indonesia, take any question that has been referred to Security Council. It has not been able to dispose them and bring peace; they are all problems which they are not able to settle. So, in one way, the League of Nations was more or less a harmless organization. This organization if it does not improve itself is going to land the world into a terrific slaughter and destruction,” he said. Lastly, in a letter written on 28th March 1950, in response to Nehru’s letter dated 26th March, a difference between them on a key issue was recorded. It is an issue which remains alive even today. Nehru was upset that Sardar had discussed foreign policy with Members of Parliament, making uncharitable comments on his initiatives. Patel’s reply was in response to it and the letter said, “Some Muslim countries have recognized Israel but we have not done out of deference of the views our Muslim brethren.” Narsimaha Rao in his tenure established full diplomatic relations with Israel and it’s no co-incidence which school of thought he belonged to in the Congress. Coming back to the moot point, Sardar Patel’s observation continues to be true for the UN, which behaves as a political body motivated only by national interest of big powers where interests come first and merit later. The romanticism related to the UN exists no more. It needs reforms and tough negotiation from various emerging economies. I would end by quoting an excerpt from Sardar Patel's observation on Kashmir. “We have seen what price we have paid by going to that Organisation. We went to UN to bring the dispute to an early end and we were maligned all over the world by the representatives of Pakistan. And people who had never seen this country and who did not understand what the problem of India and Pakistan or Kashmir was, - they began to hear the case from people who had no bone in in their tongue. They, therefore, went on talking anything that came into their mouth and for six months, it went on like that. They visited Kashmir, they visited Pakistan, they visited India, and had long and prolonged conversations and discussions. The other party did not. Eventually, they make proposals for cease-fire. The other party did not. Yet we are where we were. If we were to fight this out by armed forces and if United Nations Organisation is not able to do anything then instead of calling it a Security Council, it must be termed the “Insecurity Council” which disturbs the security of law.” (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Opinion: Why Sardar Patel mistrusted the UN Security Council

When you step into the Sardar Sarovar Dam Area, the immensity of the project does not dawn upon you. Only signs are visible. Like, an oil discharge from a steel workshop. The first sign is an emaciated stream masquerading as the mighty Narmada. Later one realises that it is the Narmada.

The river looks like someone who has been relieved from a long stay at the concentration camp. The Narmada appears thin, ugly, weak, without vigour and beauty. She looks bereft of royal pomp and grandeur as if both left her ages ago. The Narmada looks like this in a country where she and many other rivers are venerated as divine and associated with rich civilizational heritage. For instance, Ganga and Yamuna- both the rivers recently been accorded the title of living entities.

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The Narmada river is drained now and it is dying of thirst itself. (Others)
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As you approach the project from far, the walls of the dam look straight out from the film Lords of the Ring. My intention is not to make fun of the dam as it provides water to millions of farmers. The dam provides potable water. It solves the daily problem of living.

To be fair, Pandit Nehru bestowed sacredness to dams which he referred to as the temples of modern India, an idea rooted in the philosophy of harnessing nature for mankind, stealing its autonomy as well as the lifestyle that developed naturally around the river.

In Pictures:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/the-mighty-narmada-in-dire-straits-in-gujarat-582">The mighty Narmada in dire straits in Gujarat</a>

To stand in midst of the solid relief of concrete surrounded by forests is a surreal experience. You can see the Narmada through the two small holes of the dam but you cannot hear her gush nor the breeze associated with free moving water. What you hear is continuous trr trr of massive electricity wires hanging over your heads.

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View of Narmada river from a vantage point (Others)
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You don&rsquo;t see the turbines nor you hear them, but the enormous electricity, created in the bowels of the mighty structure, is felt through the trr of the wires hanging above your head. The rhythm is occasionally broken by the honking of the cars or visitors who are allowed access to the vantage point.

The enormity of the occasion only dawns on you when you stand on top of the dam. It&rsquo;s like standing on the shoulder of Hercules, holding millions of cusecs of water in his embrace. You see many green submerged tops of erstwhile hills jutting out of the water and making their presence felt.

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Green submerged tops of erstwhile hills, making their presence felt. (Others)
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The water looks blue and clean. Only on the deep side, one realises that dam was built by labour and not Gods. You realise this when you come across swirling ponds of leather chappals at the holding gate of the dam. It belongs to the very labourers who lost their chappals in the water during repair work. These chappals fell inside the deep pits of the Sarovar to gradually accumulate and quietly emerge at the gates of the massive reservoir as a reminder of thousands of nimble and unknown foots who made this quiet giant a reality. 
&nbsp; 
Sardar Sarovar Project has helped many as mentioned. It irrigates land and provided water to millions where rainwater is scarce. 
&nbsp; 
The Narmada also restores politically contested Gujarati asmita. It also reminds me of much famed Narmada Bachao Aandolan but I cannot recall the debate as politics of the dam has moved away from environmentalism towards disruptive NGOs.

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<h5>I don&rsquo;t know as to how Sardar would have reacted to this but his statue is a testimony to the fact that Indian freedom struggle remains an unresolved project.</h5>
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It is remembered with great sorrow that a lot of water was wasted when the Narmada gushed into the ocean freely. I&rsquo;m being told that today a trickle reaches the sea and the remaining 75 kilometres remain dry with a thread of white running through it. Same is the case with hundreds of rivers. Rivers have become resources to be exploited to the hilt. You have to be there to see the ugly dark, rocky and dry innards of Narmada. 
&nbsp; 
On the far end, you see a massive figure jutting into the sky which will become the highest statue in the world. The Sardar&rsquo;s frame has been built and it&#39;s deck for visitors stands higher than the dam. I don&rsquo;t know as to how Sardar would have reacted to this but his statue is a testimony to the fact that Indian freedom struggle remains an unresolved project.

The imagination of the leaders is marked with &#39;ifs&#39; and &#39;buts&#39; which erupts in different forms in different states. In Gujarat, it is about asmita and their leaders not been given the due honour after they passed away. 
&nbsp; 
Indian political economy has succeeded in enslaving multiple cradles of the Indian civilization. The Narmada, like Ganga, is one amongst many. Whether you tag them as living entities or Goddess, it will not make any difference as people have already decided to have the best of them. A river runs its full course when it meets the sea and we live in the time when the very philosophy and river and sea have been turned upside down.

(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Image Credit: Kartikeya Sharma

Human needs have left the Narmada bereft of its earlier glory, she appears thin, ugly, weak, without vigour and beauty

When you step into the Sardar Sarovar Dam Area, the immensity of the project does not dawn upon you. Only signs are visible. Like, an oil discharge from a steel workshop. The first sign is an emaciated stream masquerading as the mighty Narmada. Later one realises that it is the Narmada. The river looks like someone who has been relieved from a long stay at the concentration camp. The Narmada appears thin, ugly, weak, without vigour and beauty. She looks bereft of royal pomp and grandeur as if both left her ages ago. The Narmada looks like this in a country where she and many other rivers are venerated as divine and associated with rich civilizational heritage. For instance, Ganga and Yamuna- both the rivers recently been accorded the title of living entities. The Narmada river is drained now and it is dying of thirst itself. (Others) × As you approach the project from far, the walls of the dam look straight out from the film Lords of the Ring. My intention is not to make fun of the dam as it provides water to millions of farmers. The dam provides potable water. It solves the daily problem of living. To be fair, Pandit Nehru bestowed sacredness to dams which he referred to as the temples of modern India, an idea rooted in the philosophy of harnessing nature for mankind, stealing its autonomy as well as the lifestyle that developed naturally around the river. In Pictures: The mighty Narmada in dire straits in Gujarat To stand in midst of the solid relief of concrete surrounded by forests is a surreal experience. You can see the Narmada through the two small holes of the dam but you cannot hear her gush nor the breeze associated with free moving water. What you hear is continuous trr trr of massive electricity wires hanging over your heads. View of Narmada river from a vantage point (Others) × You don’t see the turbines nor you hear them, but the enormous electricity, created in the bowels of the mighty structure, is felt through the trr of the wires hanging above your head. The rhythm is occasionally broken by the honking of the cars or visitors who are allowed access to the vantage point. The enormity of the occasion only dawns on you when you stand on top of the dam. It’s like standing on the shoulder of Hercules, holding millions of cusecs of water in his embrace. You see many green submerged tops of erstwhile hills jutting out of the water and making their presence felt. Green submerged tops of erstwhile hills, making their presence felt. (Others) × The water looks blue and clean. Only on the deep side, one realises that dam was built by labour and not Gods. You realise this when you come across swirling ponds of leather chappals at the holding gate of the dam. It belongs to the very labourers who lost their chappals in the water during repair work. These chappals fell inside the deep pits of the Sarovar to gradually accumulate and quietly emerge at the gates of the massive reservoir as a reminder of thousands of nimble and unknown foots who made this quiet giant a reality. Sardar Sarovar Project has helped many as mentioned. It irrigates land and provided water to millions where rainwater is scarce. The Narmada also restores politically contested Gujarati asmita. It also reminds me of much famed Narmada Bachao Aandolan but I cannot recall the debate as politics of the dam has moved away from environmentalism towards disruptive NGOs. I don’t know as to how Sardar would have reacted to this but his statue is a testimony to the fact that Indian freedom struggle remains an unresolved project. × It is remembered with great sorrow that a lot of water was wasted when the Narmada gushed into the ocean freely. I’m being told that today a trickle reaches the sea and the remaining 75 kilometres remain dry with a thread of white running through it. Same is the case with hundreds of rivers. Rivers have become resources to be exploited to the hilt. You have to be there to see the ugly dark, rocky and dry innards of Narmada. On the far end, you see a massive figure jutting into the sky which will become the highest statue in the world. The Sardar’s frame has been built and it's deck for visitors stands higher than the dam. I don’t know as to how Sardar would have reacted to this but his statue is a testimony to the fact that Indian freedom struggle remains an unresolved project. The imagination of the leaders is marked with 'ifs' and 'buts' which erupts in different forms in different states. In Gujarat, it is about asmita and their leaders not been given the due honour after they passed away. Indian political economy has succeeded in enslaving multiple cradles of the Indian civilization. The Narmada, like Ganga, is one amongst many. Whether you tag them as living entities or Goddess, it will not make any difference as people have already decided to have the best of them. A river runs its full course when it meets the sea and we live in the time when the very philosophy and river and sea have been turned upside down. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity). Image Credit: Kartikeya Sharma

Opinion: The Narmada dies a lonely death

&quot;I am grateful for all the &#39;kichad&#39; being thrown at me,&quot; Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while launching his campaign for&nbsp;Gujarat assembly elections on&nbsp;Monday.&nbsp;

&quot;After all, a lotus blooms only in &#39;kichad&#39;, so I don&#39;t mind if more is thrown at me,&quot; Modi added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi address a public meeting in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gujarat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gujarat</a>&#39;s Bhuj <a href="https://t.co/Et530PU8mv">https://t.co/Et530PU8mv</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/935024863596519424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Modi was addressing a public gathering in Bhuj - the start of his campaigning in the state for the upcoming Gujarat polls.

Modi added that &quot;Gujarat is my soul and mother&quot; and that my relationship with you is that of equality since you call me brother.&nbsp;

Modi also said that the Congress had insulted Sardar Patel but the people of Gujarat still forgave them.&nbsp;

But he added that they (the people of Gujarat) would no longer tolerate any attack on their prestige.&nbsp;

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Officers did not want to get posted to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kutch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kutch</a> region as the water here was black in colour. Congress did not allow Narmada water to come to Kutch region. What if the Narmada waters had come to Kutch 30 years earlier? It would have made such a big different: PM Modi in Kutch <a href="https://t.co/FFdzeys1wF">pic.twitter.com/FFdzeys1wF</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/935030255714156544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kutch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kutch</a> ek aisi jagah hai jahan ek taraf registaan hai aur doosri taraf Pakistan hai. Kisi ne socha nahi tha ki yahan kheti bhi ho sakti hai par yahan dariya tak le aaye: PM Modi in Gujarat <a href="https://t.co/GAKpXBswwn">pic.twitter.com/GAKpXBswwn</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/935031262867218432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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When big earthquakes take place ppl say see this building has fell but in Kutch ppl say this school, this hospital, these buildings were made after the earthquake. All this was done on war footing by the army of Kutch which consists of its ppl: PM in Bhuj <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratElection2017?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratElection2017</a> <a href="https://t.co/oOPhNKY01J">pic.twitter.com/oOPhNKY01J</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/935031523467657216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'After all, a lotus blooms only in 'kichad', so I don't mind if more is thrown at me,' Modi added.?

"I am grateful for all the 'kichad' being thrown at me," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while launching his campaign for Gujarat assembly elections on Monday. "After all, a lotus blooms only in 'kichad', so I don't mind if more is thrown at me," Modi added. #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi address a public meeting in #Gujarat's Bhuj https://t.co/Et530PU8mv — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2017 × Modi was addressing a public gathering in Bhuj - the start of his campaigning in the state for the upcoming Gujarat polls. Modi added that "Gujarat is my soul and mother" and that my relationship with you is that of equality since you call me brother. Modi also said that the Congress had insulted Sardar Patel but the people of Gujarat still forgave them. But he added that they (the people of Gujarat) would no longer tolerate any attack on their prestige. Officers did not want to get posted to #Kutch region as the water here was black in colour. Congress did not allow Narmada water to come to Kutch region. What if the Narmada waters had come to Kutch 30 years earlier? It would have made such a big different: PM Modi in Kutch pic.twitter.com/FFdzeys1wF — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2017 × #Kutch ek aisi jagah hai jahan ek taraf registaan hai aur doosri taraf Pakistan hai. Kisi ne socha nahi tha ki yahan kheti bhi ho sakti hai par yahan dariya tak le aaye: PM Modi in Gujarat pic.twitter.com/GAKpXBswwn — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2017 × When big earthquakes take place ppl say see this building has fell but in Kutch ppl say this school, this hospital, these buildings were made after the earthquake. All this was done on war footing by the army of Kutch which consists of its ppl: PM in Bhuj #GujaratElection2017 pic.twitter.com/oOPhNKY01J — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2017 ×

Watch: I am grateful for all the 'kichad' being thrown at me, says PM Modi

Today many citizens either don&rsquo;t understand the value of independence or are not inclined to value the national symbols. In these times of apathy, it is important to remember the struggle of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. 
&nbsp; 
To understand his contribution to the nation we need to have a deep understanding of our own history. For the most part of the last millennia, India was subjected to foreign rule. The main reason attributed to this state of affairs was our lack of unity. The land was divided into many kingdoms and invaders were quick to exploit this political fragmentation. 
&nbsp; 
Invasions left a trail of destruction and death. MA Khan in his book, Islamic Jihad: A Legacy of Forced Conversion, Imperialism and Slavery, writes, &ldquo;... in 1398 the Mongol warlord Tamerlane declared jihad against India. When he reached Delhi he had hundred thousand prisoners. Before attacking Delhi he killed all of them (page 281)&rdquo;. 
 
He wasn&rsquo;t alone. In 1761, 60,000 to 70,000 Maratha soldiers died fighting the Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Abdali in the third battle of Panipat.

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<h5>The reason we(India) were subjugated by the foreign powers was our lack of political unity that could provide a cohesive resistance to any foreign invasion.</h5>
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Similarly, in 1739 Iranian invader Nadir Shah resorted to the massacre in Delhi that left close to 30,000 dead. 
&nbsp; 
Death, destitution and starvation due to misrule by the British colonial rulers is today well documented. 
&nbsp; 
The reason we were subjugated by the foreign powers was our lack of political unity that could provide a cohesive resistance to any foreign invasion. 
&nbsp; 
Small kings ruled their principalities without any consideration to the larger needs of the nation and the threats our motherland faced. 
&nbsp; 
But today things have changed. A resident of Kerala joins the Indian army and readily lays down his life in Jammu &amp; Kashmir to safeguard the interests of the country. Men and women from every corner of India lay down their lives in varied theatres of action to save the integrity and unity of our nation. 
&nbsp; 
Patriotism and belief in the integrity and unity of a nation are the most important glue that holds the modern nation-state together and for this, we have only Sardar Patel to thank for. 
&nbsp; 
In 1947 when India became independent Sardar Patel was given the charge of the home ministry. At that time India had 565 princely states. The British wanted that they should remain independent so that India remained weak and fragmented. 
&nbsp; 
But Sardar Patel saw through their game and thwarted any attempts to rupture India&rsquo;s unity. Among the princely states, he had two greatest challenges - Hyderabad and Jammu &amp; Kashmir. He used his political genius to convince the Nizam of Hyderabad to join the Indian Union.

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<h5>If you want to understand how grave the situation was at the time of Independence then you must watch what is happening in Spain&rsquo;s Catalonia province today.</h5>
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Kashmir, however, was a different ball game. Even though he was the home minister he was kept away from dealing with Kashmir which was an issue close to the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. 
&nbsp; 
It is because of Sardar&rsquo;s exclusion from the affairs of the state of Jammu and Kashmir that the issue is still posing a serious problem for the country. 
&nbsp; 
If you want to understand how grave the situation was at the time of Independence then you must watch what is happening in Spain&rsquo;s Catalonia province today.

The province has declared itself independent and the Spanish government is at its wit&rsquo;s end figuring out how to tackle this crisis perpetuated by the secessionists. 
&nbsp; 
It was the same situation in India but with 565 Catalonias demanding independence, ready to secede any moment. In such a dangerous atmosphere maintaining the unity of a new nation would really have been a great challenge for the &ldquo;iron man&rdquo;.

Sardar Patel's political strategies were the reasons behind India's unification after independence from colonial rule

Today many citizens either don’t understand the value of independence or are not inclined to value the national symbols. In these times of apathy, it is important to remember the struggle of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. To understand his contribution to the nation we need to have a deep understanding of our own history. For the most part of the last millennia, India was subjected to foreign rule. The main reason attributed to this state of affairs was our lack of unity. The land was divided into many kingdoms and invaders were quick to exploit this political fragmentation. Invasions left a trail of destruction and death. MA Khan in his book, Islamic Jihad: A Legacy of Forced Conversion, Imperialism and Slavery, writes, “... in 1398 the Mongol warlord Tamerlane declared jihad against India. When he reached Delhi he had hundred thousand prisoners. Before attacking Delhi he killed all of them (page 281)”. He wasn’t alone. In 1761, 60,000 to 70,000 Maratha soldiers died fighting the Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Abdali in the third battle of Panipat. The reason we(India) were subjugated by the foreign powers was our lack of political unity that could provide a cohesive resistance to any foreign invasion. × Similarly, in 1739 Iranian invader Nadir Shah resorted to the massacre in Delhi that left close to 30,000 dead. Death, destitution and starvation due to misrule by the British colonial rulers is today well documented. The reason we were subjugated by the foreign powers was our lack of political unity that could provide a cohesive resistance to any foreign invasion. Small kings ruled their principalities without any consideration to the larger needs of the nation and the threats our motherland faced. But today things have changed. A resident of Kerala joins the Indian army and readily lays down his life in Jammu & Kashmir to safeguard the interests of the country. Men and women from every corner of India lay down their lives in varied theatres of action to save the integrity and unity of our nation. Patriotism and belief in the integrity and unity of a nation are the most important glue that holds the modern nation-state together and for this, we have only Sardar Patel to thank for. In 1947 when India became independent Sardar Patel was given the charge of the home ministry. At that time India had 565 princely states. The British wanted that they should remain independent so that India remained weak and fragmented. But Sardar Patel saw through their game and thwarted any attempts to rupture India’s unity. Among the princely states, he had two greatest challenges - Hyderabad and Jammu & Kashmir. He used his political genius to convince the Nizam of Hyderabad to join the Indian Union. If you want to understand how grave the situation was at the time of Independence then you must watch what is happening in Spain’s Catalonia province today. × Kashmir, however, was a different ball game. Even though he was the home minister he was kept away from dealing with Kashmir which was an issue close to the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It is because of Sardar’s exclusion from the affairs of the state of Jammu and Kashmir that the issue is still posing a serious problem for the country. If you want to understand how grave the situation was at the time of Independence then you must watch what is happening in Spain’s Catalonia province today. The province has declared itself independent and the Spanish government is at its wit’s end figuring out how to tackle this crisis perpetuated by the secessionists. It was the same situation in India but with 565 Catalonias demanding independence, ready to secede any moment. In such a dangerous atmosphere maintaining the unity of a new nation would really have been a great challenge for the “iron man”.

Spain needs a leader like Sardar Patel to tackle Catalan crisis

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday&nbsp;said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was both the architect and unifier of modern India but his &quot;monumental contribution&quot; had not got proper recognition. 
 
Patel was a selfless leader who shaped India&#39;s destiny with single-minded devotion, the vice president said at an event to commemorate the 142nd birth anniversary of India&#39;s first home minister at the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library here. 
 
&quot;It is unfortunate that there has been no proper recognition of the monumental contribution made by Sardar Patel and his legacy in unifying the country at its most critical juncture in the history,&quot; he said. 
 
(Also Read --<a href="http://http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sardar-vallabhbhai-patel-should-have-been-first-recipient-of-bharat-ratna-amit-shah-23215">&nbsp;Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel should have been first recipient of Bharat Ratna: Amit Shah at Himachal election rally</a>) 
 
Sardar Patel&#39;s birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. 
 
&quot;Sardar Patel, the architect and unifier of modern India, was not only a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi but also his ardent follower. He fashioned the country&#39;s political integration with the swiftness of a military commander and deftness of a visionary leader,&quot; Naidu said. 
 
Patel displayed the vision of a statesman, the vice president said. 
 
His tact, diplomacy and pragmatic approach prevented the Balkanisation of the country and ensured the merger of more than 560 princely states with the Union of India at a critical and most turbulent period in the history of the country, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;What makes this stupendous integration most remarkable is that it was achieved without any bloodshed,&quot; he said. 
 
One of Patel&#39;s great contributions, he added, was the creation of the Indian Administrative Service, which was once a &#39;mission&#39; but had now become a &#39;commission&#39; for some. 
 
&quot;His vision for a unified India also saw the creation of the All India Administrative Service which he described as a steel frame. It was one of the great contributions he made to the country,&quot; the vice president said. 
 
Patel&#39;s exhortations to probationers to maintain &quot;utmost impartiality and incorruptibility in administration&quot; were as relevant today as they were then, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;Earlier it was a mission, now some people have turned it into a commission giving remission and committing many omissions.&quot; 
 
Naidu, who also inaugurated a two-day national conference and an exhibition on &#39;Making of a Gandhian Nationalist: Life and Times of Sardar Patel&#39;, in the presence of Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma, said agriculture had been completely ignored post independence, contrary to Patel?s belief that it was the &quot;basic culture of India&quot;. 
 
Agriculture and industry were like our eyes, both needing equal care, but the former had been treated unjustly, the vice president said. 
Food security is an important aspect in India, with a population of 130 crore, and agriculture cannot be ignored, he said. 
 
&quot;People are leaving agriculture... A doctor wants his son to be a doctor, a teacher wants his son to be a teacher, a businessman wants his son to be a businessman, an actor wants his son to be an actor, even when the face is not good enough, and then thrusting them upon us, but a farmer does not want his son to be a farmer. This is because agriculture is not remunerative,&quot; he said. 
 
In a bid to rectify the situation, the Modi government was focusing on agriculture. &quot;... By 2022, the aim of the government is to double the income of agriculturists.&quot; 
 
Patel, who was born on October 31, 1875, passed away on December 15, 1950. 
 
Naidu said the leader led a down to earth life and knew each and every problem of the country. He had clarity and was committed to unity, Naidu said. 
 
&quot;He needs to be remembered by every Indian as the country marches ahead as one of the largest economies in the world...&quot;

 
&nbsp;

Sardar Patel's birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was both the architect and unifier of modern India but his "monumental contribution" had not got proper recognition. Patel was a selfless leader who shaped India's destiny with single-minded devotion, the vice president said at an event to commemorate the 142nd birth anniversary of India's first home minister at the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library here. "It is unfortunate that there has been no proper recognition of the monumental contribution made by Sardar Patel and his legacy in unifying the country at its most critical juncture in the history," he said. (Also Read -- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel should have been first recipient of Bharat Ratna: Amit Shah at Himachal election rally) Sardar Patel's birth anniversary is being celebrated across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas. "Sardar Patel, the architect and unifier of modern India, was not only a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi but also his ardent follower. He fashioned the country's political integration with the swiftness of a military commander and deftness of a visionary leader," Naidu said. Patel displayed the vision of a statesman, the vice president said. His tact, diplomacy and pragmatic approach prevented the Balkanisation of the country and ensured the merger of more than 560 princely states with the Union of India at a critical and most turbulent period in the history of the country, Naidu said. "What makes this stupendous integration most remarkable is that it was achieved without any bloodshed," he said. One of Patel's great contributions, he added, was the creation of the Indian Administrative Service, which was once a 'mission' but had now become a 'commission' for some. "His vision for a unified India also saw the creation of the All India Administrative Service which he described as a steel frame. It was one of the great contributions he made to the country," the vice president said. Patel's exhortations to probationers to maintain "utmost impartiality and incorruptibility in administration" were as relevant today as they were then, Naidu said. "Earlier it was a mission, now some people have turned it into a commission giving remission and committing many omissions." Naidu, who also inaugurated a two-day national conference and an exhibition on 'Making of a Gandhian Nationalist: Life and Times of Sardar Patel', in the presence of Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma, said agriculture had been completely ignored post independence, contrary to Patel?s belief that it was the "basic culture of India". Agriculture and industry were like our eyes, both needing equal care, but the former had been treated unjustly, the vice president said. Food security is an important aspect in India, with a population of 130 crore, and agriculture cannot be ignored, he said. "People are leaving agriculture... A doctor wants his son to be a doctor, a teacher wants his son to be a teacher, a businessman wants his son to be a businessman, an actor wants his son to be an actor, even when the face is not good enough, and then thrusting them upon us, but a farmer does not want his son to be a farmer. This is because agriculture is not remunerative," he said. In a bid to rectify the situation, the Modi government was focusing on agriculture. "... By 2022, the aim of the government is to double the income of agriculturists." Patel, who was born on October 31, 1875, passed away on December 15, 1950. Naidu said the leader led a down to earth life and knew each and every problem of the country. He had clarity and was committed to unity, Naidu said. "He needs to be remembered by every Indian as the country marches ahead as one of the largest economies in the world..."

No proper recognition of Sardar Patel's contribution in unifying the country: Venkaiah Naidu

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