The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, by organizing padyatras across all 779 districts of the country from October 31 to November 25. This initiative, dubbed the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run, aims to engage the youth in nation-building and promote national unity.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse inaugurated the national campaign at the Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi on Monday, emphasizing its significance beyond mere commemoration.
“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.
The padyatras will take place in every parliamentary constituency over three days, covering 8 to 10 kilometers daily. With participation expected from all 779 districts, the initiative honors Sardar Patel’s unparalleled contribution to national integration.
The Minister addressed concerns regarding participation from opposition-ruled states like West Bengal, which has recently suffered from flooding. Mandaviya assured that this initiative transcends 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 asserted.
Union Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, and volunteers from My Bharat, NSS, and NCC will lead the padyatras and assist with logistics and cleanliness drives during the events. Their involvement aims to foster community spirit and reaffirm the message of unity.
At the national level, a special padyatra will occur from November 26 to December 6, spanning 152 kilometers from Sardar Patel’s birthplace in Karamsad, Gujarat, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, which is the world’s tallest statue dedicated to him.
A select group of 150 young leaders, identified through a national quiz competition, will partake in this symbolic padyatra, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Iron Man of India.
The initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote unity and patriotism among the youth. By engaging citizens in this manner, the Ministry aims to instill a sense of responsibility and pride in the rich history of India.
