The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, by organizing a nationwide Unity Run with padyatras across all districts from October 31 to November 25.
This initiative, dubbed ‘Sardar@150’, aims to involve the youth in a movement reflecting Patel’s role in national integration. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse launched the initiative at New Delhi’s Dhyan Chand Stadium.
“Sardar@150 isn’t just a commemoration but a national movement aimed at engaging youth in nation-building. Like Sardar Patel united over 560 princely states, this initiative will channel young India’s energy towards strengthening unity,” stated Mandaviya.
The padyatras will unfold over three days in every parliamentary constituency, covering 8 to 10 km daily. It marks a significant effort as all 779 districts of India will honor Patel’s legacy and his unmatched contribution to national integrity.
Mandaviya expressed confidence about participation across political boundaries, including states under opposition rule. He clarified that the event is purely a cultural initiative, saying, “This is beyond politics. I am confident in positive participation regardless of the ruling party.”
“Our aim is to instill a sense of unity among youths across different regions of India,” he added, emphasizing the initiative’s inclusive nature.
As part of this effort, Union Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, and volunteers from organizations like My Bharat, NSS, and NCC will lead the padyatras. They will also manage logistics and cleanliness drives, ensuring the events run smoothly.
In addition to the district-level events, a special padyatra will take place from November 26 to December 6, covering 152 km from Karamsad in Gujarat, Sardar Patel’s birthplace, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. This statue, recognized as the world’s tallest, stands as a tribute to Patel’s enduring legacy.
A highlight of this padyatra will be the participation of 150 selected young leaders, chosen through a national-level quiz competition. Their involvement symbolizes the spirit of collaboration and the celebration of Patel’s role as the Iron Man of India.
People across the nation urge a spirit of solidarity during the Unity Run. It encourages everyone, especially the youth, to learn about Patel’s contributions and the principles of resilience and unity he championed.
As this momentous anniversary approaches, the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run not only fosters a sense of national pride but also aims to inspire a new generation committed to the ideals of unity and integrity that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel espoused.