Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Architect of Modern India” handled the problems with deftness and dexterity and shaped India’s destiny with single-minded devotion. He made his mark in the Kheda and Bardoli satyagra has and become one of the most popular leaders of the freedom struggle. With his defined dedication he was given the formidable task of integrating the princely states as India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister.
During the British Empire in India princely states were subsidiary state under a regional ruler. However, it was not directly ruled by the British rulers, but by a local leader. They had indirect control over these states. There were 565 princely states officially recognized in India constituting 48% of the area and 28% of the population of the pre-independent India.
After the independence in 1947, the British government gave a choice to the princely states to either join India or Pakistan or to remain independent. Sardar Patel gracefully handled the integration of the native states to the Indian union with diplomacy and negotiation. A rigid policy he followed and maintained that no independent princely state would be allowed to remain isolated within India. However, he convinced them to surrender their defense, foreign affairs and communication with the Indian union. With his brilliance and tactics, all the princely states had integrated with India except the state of Jodhpur, Junagadh, Kashmir, and Hyderabad.
Later, when Jodhpur tried to make a better deal with Pakistan and agreed to free access to importing and production of arms, Sardar Patel met the Maharaja of Jodhpur Harvant Singh and guaranteed the import of arms, supply of grains during famines, and the connection of Jodhpur to Kathiawar through railways.
The Nawab of Junagadh decided to join Pakistan but the majority of Hindus belonging there revolted against the decision which resulted in a lot of violence after independence. Sardar Patel asked and demanded Pakistan to reverse the deal as the majority of the citizens voted for Junagadh’s integration with India and later in 1948 Junagadh became a part of India.
Sardar Patel played an integral role and also supported the integration of Lakshadweep to the Indian union. However, Patel was instrumental in the integration of the princely states with the Indian Union. What is Sardar Patel Peace and unity award?
SPPU makes a formal attempt to recognize and celebrate the exemplary efforts made by passionate individuals who brings a positive impact within society. Pease & unity award sppu award are given to recognize notable and inspiring contributions to promote the cause of national unity and integrity.
Read also this blog: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the Bardoli Satyagraha