State-Level Ceremony Marks National Unity Day in Cuttack
Odisha's police force commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with a significant state-level ceremony in Cuttack. The event, celebrating Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), took place on the grounds of the 6th OSAP Battalion. It served as a powerful reminder of the nation's foundational commitment to cohesion and internal security.
Parade Highlights and Unity Pledge
Director General of Police (Crime Branch), Vinayatosh Mishra, presided over the event as the chief guest. He accepted the salute from a combined parade after paying formal tributes to the revered freedom fighter. A central moment of the ceremony involved Shri Mishra administering a solemn oath. Police officers, staff, and participating jawans pledged to uphold the unity, integrity, and security of the nation.
Remembering Patel’s Legacy
In his address, the DGP highlighted Sardar Patel's life philosophy and enduring contributions to the nation. He emphasized Patel's patriotism and his monumental, incomparable effort to integrate 562 princely states into the Indian union following independence. Shri Mishra noted that this singular achievement was foundational to India's unique and special identity on the world stage.
Statewide Observance and Public Engagement
Shri Mishra also issued a call for all citizens to foster a spirit of brotherhood and friendship. He stressed the collective responsibility of the police and the public to control crime and maintain law and order, which are essential for establishing societal peace. The observance was not limited to Cuttack; it was marked across all 34 police districts in Odisha. Community engagement was a key theme, with events like the 'Run for Unity' and various competitions for students, including drawing and debates, being organized to connect the public with the day's message.
The combined parade featured contingents from the OSAP 6th Battalion, 6th IR Battalion, and 3rd IR Battalion, led by Commandant Shri Yakub Khan. The event saw a strong show of leadership, with Additional DGPs Shri S. K. Priyadarsi, Shri Arun Bothra, Shri Sanjay Kumar, Shri Dayal Gangwar, and Shri Rajesh Kumar, among other senior officials, in attendance.
