All television channels and FM channels have been requested to cover the 'Run for Unity' and floral tribute on Rashtriya Ekta Divas on 31 October 2017 which also is birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The channels have been asked by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in a befitting manner keeping in view the spirit of nationalism and the spirit of the occasion. Traditionally the floral tribute is covered live by Doordarshan every year.
A request to this effect has been sent to the Indian Broadcasting Foundation, the News Broadcasters Association, the Association of Regional TV Broadcasters of India, and the Association of Radio Operators of India. The day also marks the martyrdom day of former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi.