Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Iron Man of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary. He was at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat wherein he addressed the gathering. 

“A year back, the biggest statue was given to the country. The statue is attracting not just Indians, but the world today,” said PM Modi in his address. 

Raking up Article 370, PM Modi dedicated its abrogation to Sardar Patel. "Article 370 is a wall that has gone now," PM Modi said, adding that when we respect the traditions and beliefs of different sects, harmony and affection get further enhanced. 

Article 370 gave nothing but terrorism and isolation to Jammu and Kashmir stated PM Modi adding that a great decision was taken on August 05. “I dedicate the abrogation of Article 370 to Sardar (Patel) Sahab,” stated PM Modi.

He further added that he had promised Jammu & Kashmir Police and officials of the 7th pay commission and he’s happy to announce that it will start from today. 

“I had promised the people of J&K that I will provide them with the facilities provided to Govt employees of every UT in August. Today, the benefits of the 7th Pay Commission has been extended to J&K and Ladakh as well,” said PM Modi at Statue of Unity in Gujarat.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off a run to commemorate the 144th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the national capital.

On Thursday morning, PM Modi paid his tribute to Sardar Patel. "Tributes to the great Sardar Patel on his Jayanti. His contribution to our nation is monumental," he tweeted.