Lucknow, Dec. 15 -- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, remembering him as the "Iron Man of India" and highlighting his contribution to the country's freedom movement and national unity.

Addressing a gathering, CM Yogi said, "Today the entire country is remembering the Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and expressing gratitude for his services to the nation... He was born into an ordinary farmer's family, acquired higher education, the purpose behind which was not to take up a job in the foreign regime but to dedicate the benefits of his talent at the feet of Mother India by understanding the country and the world. He led the freedom movement. Endured the tortures of jail many ...