Patel took charge of the task to forge a united India from the 565 semi-autonomous princely states and British-era colonial provinces.

SARDAR PATEL - SALUTE TO YOU FOR MAKING OUR COUNTRY UNITED,

Patel took charge of the task to forge a united India from the 565 semi-autonomous princely states and British-era colonial provinces. 

Using frank diplomacy backed with the option (and the use) of military action, Patel's leadership enabled the accession of almost every princely state. Hailed as the Iron Man of India, he is also remembered as the "Patron Saint" of India's civil servants for establishing modern all-India services. 

Patel was also one of the earliest proponents of property rights and free enterprise in India.