The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, by organizing ‘padyatras’ across all districts from October 31 to November 25. This initiative, called the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run, aims to engage the youth in nation-building through a series of walks across the country.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse launched the initiative at Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. “Sardar@150 is not merely a commemoration but a national movement to engage youth in nation-building. Just as Sardar Patel united over 560 princely states to forge a strong and united India, this initiative seeks to channel the energy of young Indians towards strengthening national unity,” Mandaviya stated during the launch.
The padyatras will span across all 779 districts of India, featuring three-day events in every parliamentary constituency that cover 8 to 10 km daily. “All districts will participate, honouring Sardar Patel’s memory and his unmatched contribution to national integration,” Mandaviya emphasized.
When queried about the involvement of opposition-ruled states, specifically West Bengal, which is grappling with floods, the minister remarked that the initiative extends beyond politics. “This has got nothing to do with politics, and I am sure there will be wholehearted participation irrespective of who is in power,” he assured.
“We invite everyone to join hands and make this event resonant across the nation,” Mandaviya added.
In this spirit of national unity, the padyatras will be led by Union Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, and supported by volunteers from organizations like My Bharat, NSS, and NCC. They will aid in organizing logistics and cleanliness drives throughout the events.
Additionally, from November 26 to December 6, a special padyatra will traverse 152 km from Karamsad in Gujarat, the birthplace of Sardar Patel, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the tallest statue in the world honoring his legacy.
A noteworthy aspect of this commemoration involves 150 young leaders, selected through a national-level quiz competition, who will take part in this symbolic padyatra. This event not only honors the legacy of the Iron Man of India but also galvanizes the youth towards contributing to national cohesion.
In conclusion, the Unity Run serves as a reminder of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision and determination to unify India. As the country steps into this initiative, it reflects a collective commitment to foster unity and integrity among its citizens.
