The birth anniversary of first deputy Prime Minister of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is being observed as National Unity Day across the country today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the grand marathon the ‘Run for Unity’ in the National capital, from Vijay Chowk to India Gate on Rajpath early this morning.

A function to pay floral tribute to Sardar Patel will also be held at Patel Chowk, in New Delhi during the celebrations. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has appealed the people to enthusiastically participate in the grand marathon and pay rich tribute to the iron man Sardar Patel.

A Pledge taking ceremony will be organized in all government offices, to observe the day. Educational Institutions will organise various events on the birth anniversary. In the evening a ‘March-Past’ by the Police, the Central Armed Police Forces and other organizations like the NCC, NSS, Scouts and Guides, Home Guards, will also be held on the streets of major cities and district towns.