Sardar Patel National Unity Award: Government likely to name winner this year

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is set to announce the first Sardar Patel National Unity Award on October 31, marking the completion of a two-year celebration of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary. Despite receiving over one hundred nominations each year, no winners were selected so far due to a lack of "deserving" candidates.

The award, which is equivalent to the Padma Vibhushan, will be given by the President alongside the Padma Awards the following year. Candidates must have made outstanding efforts and notable contributions to promote national unity and integrity, inspiring others and reinforcing the value of a strong and united India. The award committee will consist of the Prime Minister, Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Secretary to the President, Home Secretary, and three to four eminent persons selected by the Prime Minister. The medal, made of gold and silver, will feature Patel's portrait and the national emblem.