The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has announced plans for a nationwide Unity Run to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, from October 31 to November 25. This initiative aims to promote national unity and engage the youth in a national movement.
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse, launched the ‘Sardar@150’ initiative on Monday at the Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. Mandaviya stated,
“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,”
emphasizing the importance of youth involvement.
The Unity Run will feature padyatras—or marches—across all 779 districts in India, covering 8 to 10 km daily over three-day events in each parliamentary constituency during the specified period. Mandaviya noted,
“All districts will participate to honour Sardar Patel’s memory and his unmatched contribution to national integration,”
highlighting the comprehensive nature of the initiative.
Regarding potential participation from opposition-ruled states such as West Bengal, Mandaviya asserted that this movement is “beyond politics.” He expressed confidence that the initiative would receive wholehearted participation, regardless of political affiliations.
“This has got nothing to do with politics, and I am sure there will be wholehearted participation irrespective of who is in power,”
he reiterated.
The padyatras will involve Union Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament, along with volunteers from various organizations including My Bharat, NSS, and NCC. These teams will oversee logistics and conduct cleanliness drives during the events.
Additionally, a special padyatra will take place at the national level from November 26 to December 6. This symbolic march will span 152 km from Karamsad, Patel’s birthplace in Gujarat, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the world’s tallest statue dedicated to him. Mandaviya stated that the march aims to reconnect the youth with the values and legacy of India’s Iron Man.
As part of this special padyatra, a select group of 150 young leaders will be chosen through a national-level quiz competition. Their participation underscores the initiative’s focus on engaging the youth and celebrating Patel’s enduring legacy.
In conclusion, the Unity Run under the ‘Sardar@150’ initiative is poised to not only commemorate a national icon but also foster a sense of unity among the youth across India. With a goal of instilling values exemplified by Sardar Patel, this initiative serves as a stepping stone towards a more integrated nation.
