Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel handled effectively the integration of the Princely State of Hyderabad with his diplomatic skills and foresightedness. The problem of amalgamating 562 independent States with a democratic self-governing India was both difficult and delicate. But it was essential to save India from balkanisation once the paramountcy of the British Crown lapsed.

Sardar Patel took charge of the States Department in July 1947. He sensed the urgent need for the integration of Princely States and persuaded them to surrender Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Communications to the Government of India.

With an iron-fisted hand, Sardar Patel subdued the Nizam. When the Nizam boasted anti-India sentiments and allowed the Razakars to unleash a bloodbath, Patel decided upon Police Action. He ordered the army to march into Hyderabad.

The Nizam surrendered, and Hyderabad was acceded to India.