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World’s tallest statue, an ode to the Iron Man of India

Narmada (Rajpipla), Gujarat

September 08, 2021

narmada

The world’s tallest statue, measuring 182 metres (597 feet) pays tribute to Indian statesman and active participant of the freedom movement, Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as Sardar Patel. A lawyer by profession, he was severely influenced by Mahatma Gandhi and supported the Non-Cooperation Movement. In 1920, Sardar Patel became the President of Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee and worked against alcoholism, untouchability, and caste discrimination.

As the first home minister of independent India, Patel took charge of the integration of the princely states into India. This achievement formed the cornerstone of Patel's popularity in the post-independence era. Even today he is remembered as the man who united India, and earned the moniker ‘Iron Man of India’.

He was also instrumental is created the All-India Services which he described as the country’s ‘Steel Frame’. He realised the crucial role that civil services play in administering a country, in maintaining law and order, and governing institutions that provide a binding force to society. As a result, he is regarded as Father of Modern All India Services.

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