Joining the rest of the country, Nagaland is observing Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, or National Unity Day, today to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and reaffirm the values of national unity, integrity and security. A state-level pledge-taking ceremony will be held at the Secretariat Conference Hall in Kohima. Government offices across the state will also administer the unity pledge to their employees. Meanwhile, Run for Unity events are being organised at various district headquarters to promote the message of national integration and solidarity.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio paid tributes to Sardar Patel on the occasion. In his message, Mr Rio said Patel’s vision, courage and determination had played a crucial role in uniting the nation. He expressed hope that Sardar Patel’s legacy would continue to inspire people to uphold unity, integrity and collective progress while strengthening the bonds that hold the nation together.