New Delhi, Nov. 1 -- Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at his statue near the Clock Tower in Dehradun, recalling his contribution to India's national integration and the building of a united country.

Dhami offered floral tributes to Patel and said the leader's life had been dedicated to the unity, integrity and sovereignty of India. He highlighted Patel's role in bringing together the country's princely states, saying his determination, foresight and leadership had contributed significantly to the formation of an integrated nation.

According to the chief minister, Patel played a decisive role in the integration of more than 560 princely states, laying the foundation for a...