Celebrating the 150th Birth Anniversary
Honouring the Iron Man of India: On 30 October 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by unveiling a ₹150 commemorative coin and a special postage stamp in Gujarat. The event symbolized the enduring legacy of Patel, who was instrumental in shaping modern India’s unity after independence.
The ceremony was held in Kevadia, home to the world’s tallest statue — the Statue of Unity, a monument dedicated to Patel. The occasion was not merely ceremonial but reflected the spirit of national integration and self-reliance.
Static GK fact: The Statue of Unity, inaugurated in 2018, stands 182 meters tall and is located on the banks of the Narmada River in Gujarat.
Coin and Stamp Release
The newly launched ₹150 coin celebrates 150 years of Patel’s birth, symbolizing his towering contribution to the Indian Union. The accompanying postage stamp serves as a national tribute, ensuring his memory remains etched across generations.
Such commemorative issues have historically been used to honour significant national figures and events. Earlier, similar coins were issued to commemorate leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
Static GK tip: The first commemorative coin in India was released in 1964, honouring Jawaharlal Nehru after his death.
Development Projects in Gujarat
Alongside the symbolic releases, PM Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth ₹1,219 crore in Kevadia. These initiatives aim to enhance tourism, sustainability, and regional growth.
Key highlights include:
- Launch of a fleet of electric buses to promote eco-friendly mobility.
- Development of a hospitality district and a Bonsai Garden to boost tourism.
- Cultural programmes celebrating Patel’s ideals of unity and integrity.
These projects strengthen the Statue of Unity Tourism Circuit, making it a hub for cultural and environmental initiatives.
Static GK fact: The Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority (SOUADTGA) manages tourism projects around the site.
Symbolism and Legacy
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, revered as the Iron Man of India, was India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. He integrated over 500 princely states into the Indian Union, ensuring a seamless transition after independence.
The coin and stamp reinforce the motto of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”, reaffirming Patel’s role as the architect of a united India. His vision continues to inspire India’s governance, development, and nationalism even today.
Static GK tip: National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) is celebrated every year on 31 October to commemorate Patel’s birth anniversary.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Honouring the Iron Man of India:
| Topic | Detail |
| Event | 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel |
| Date | 30 October 2025 |
| Location | Kevadia, Gujarat |
| Launched By | PM Narendra Modi |
| Commemorations | ₹150 coin and postage stamp |
| Development Projects Value | ₹1,219 crore |
| Key Projects | Electric buses, hospitality district, Bonsai Garden |
| Associated Motto | Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat |
| Statue of Unity Height | 182 meters |
| National Unity Day | Observed on 31 October every year |
