The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, by launching nationwide padyatras starting October 31. The initiative aims to honor Patel’s legacy and unify the nation across all 779 districts.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside Minister of State for Defence, Nikhil Khadse, unveiled the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run on Monday at the iconic Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi. This event is designed not only as a tribute to Patel but also as a medium to engage the youth in national unity.
“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 occur from October 31 to November 25, with events spanning three days in each parliamentary constituency and covering 8 to 10 km daily. This extensive plan ensures that every corner of the nation participates in honoring Sardar Patel’s memory.
Minister Mandaviya emphasized the significance of participation: “All 779 districts of India will partake in these padyatras to pay tribute to Sardar Patel’s unmatched contributions towards national integration.” His comments reflect a unified approach toward the initiative, focusing on a common goal.
In response to concerns about participation from opposition-ruled states like West Bengal, which is currently facing hurricane floods, Mandaviya assured that participation transcends political affiliations. “This initiative is beyond politics and I am confident there will be wholehearted participation, regardless of political ties,” he asserted, aiming to foster solidarity.
“This has got nothing to do with politics, and I am sure there will be wholehearted participation irrespective of who is in power,” Mandaviya reiterated, emphasizing inclusivity.
The padyatras will feature Union Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament, with support from dedicated volunteers from organizations like My Bharat, NSS, and NCC. These volunteers will assist in logistical needs and cleanliness drives accompanying the events.
On a larger scale, a special padyatra is scheduled from November 26 to December 6, traversing 152 km from Karamsad—the birthplace of Sardar Patel—to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the world’s tallest statue built in his honor. This padyatra epitomizes the spirit of unity and resilience.
A group of 150 young leaders, chosen through a national-level quiz competition, will join this symbolic journey to honor the legacy of the Iron Man of India. This initiative not only recognizes Sardar Patel’s pivotal role in the nation’s history but aims to inspire future generations.
