The first Deputy Prime Minister of India was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Explanation:
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was an Indian barrister and statesman who played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence from British rule.
- After independence, Patel was appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Home Affairs in the first Cabinet of Independent India, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Patel held these positions from 1947 until his death in 1950.
- As the Deputy Prime Minister, Patel played a significant role in the integration of princely states into the Indian Union.
- Under his leadership, the Indian government successfully persuaded the princely states to accede to India, thereby consolidating the country's unity and territorial integrity.
- Patel's efforts in this regard were instrumental in the formation of a unified India, free from the fragmentation of princely states.
- He was also responsible for the reorganization of states on linguistic lines, which led to the formation of states such as Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
- Patel's contributions to the nation-building process and his role in shaping India's political landscape earned him the title of the "Iron Man of India."
- He is remembered as one of the founding fathers of the Indian Republic and as a respected leader who played a crucial role in the early years of independent India.

In conclusion, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. His leadership and contributions to the nation continue to be celebrated and remembered to this day.