A tribute to the man credited with integrating hundreds of princely states into a united India will also be accompanied by a major development push at Ekta Nagar, with projects worth over Rs 426 crore lined up to mark Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 151st birth anniversary.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid homage to Sardar Patel, remembering his contribution to India's nation-building and describing him as the architect of Akhand Bharat and the nation's Iron Man.

In a message posted on X, Modi said Patel dedicated his life to building a strong, prosperous and capable India.

The Prime Minister also highlighted his sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the country, calling his legacy an enduring inspiration for the vision of a developed and self-reliant India.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to offer floral tributes at the Statue of Unity at around 9 am before inaugurating the projects and laying foundation stones for the proposed developments.

The combined investment of Rs 426.71 crore aims to strengthen tourism infrastructure and improve visitor facilities in the Statue of Unity region.

Of the 31 projects, 23, valued at Rs 307.83 crore, will be inaugurated. The remaining eight projects, estimated to cost Rs 118.88 crore, will see their foundation stones laid.

Among the major attractions being opened is an IRCTC hotel, constructed at an investment of Rs 50 crore.

The Ekta Cruise, developed at a cost of Rs 16 crore, is another significant addition to the region's tourism offerings.

Visitors will also have access to a Rain Forest attraction, developed at a cost of Rs 14.30 crore, and an Eco Trail project worth Rs 3.67 crore.

The infrastructure package extends beyond tourism facilities. It includes sewage and water treatment plants, travelators to facilitate tourist movement, a parade track, staff quarters and road improvement works.

The projects also include the development of the Narmada Ghat, facade lighting at the Statue of Unity campus, and the upgradation of Unity Glow Garden.

The eight projects receiving foundation stones include the Gora-Bhanadra Road development, estimated at Rs 59.32 crore, and the Khalwani Bridge project, which carries an investment of Rs 7.72 crore.

The list also includes an integrated development project for the Cactus and Butterfly Garden, costing Rs 5.79 crore.

Other proposed works include widening Vaghadia Road, a disaster control room for the Sardar Sarovar Dam, a Smart Zero Waste Integrated Solid Waste Management Project worth Rs 36.58 crore, and Khalwani Eco-Tourism development estimated at Rs 5.15 crore.

These initiatives are expected to strengthen connectivity, improve waste management and expand sustainable tourism facilities in the region.

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Following the inauguration programme, Modi will visit the Rain Forest and Vaman Vriksha Vatika. He is also scheduled to participate in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at around 5.30 pm.

The annual observance commemorates Patel's contribution to India's unity and his role in bringing the princely states together after Independence.

This year's celebrations will include the Ekta Parade, featuring contingents from Central Armed Police Forces, state police forces and central police organisations.

Cultural performances involving artists from across the country will also form part of the programme.