The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will organize nationwide padyatras to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, starting on October 31. This initiative aims to foster national unity through the engagement of youth, replicating Patel’s historic unification of over 560 princely states.
On Monday, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya along with Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse launched the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run at the famed Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi.
“Sardar@150 is not merely a commemoration but a national movement. Just as Sardar Patel forged a united India, this initiative directs young Indians to contribute to our nation’s unity,” said Mandaviya.
The padyatras will occur between October 31 and November 25, involving three-day events within each parliamentary constituency, motivating participants to cover 8 to 10 km daily.
All 779 districts will take part to honour Sardar Patel’s legacy and his vital role in integrating the nation.
Addressing concerns regarding participation from opposition-ruled states like West Bengal, affected by recent floods, Mandaviya emphasized that the initiative remains “beyond politics.”
“This initiative transcends political lines, and I anticipate enthusiastic participation from all quarters,” he asserted.
Emphasizing teamwork, the padyatras will be spearheaded by Union Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament, alongside support from My Bharat, NSS, and NCC volunteers, who will manage logistics and cleanliness during the events.
In a special event, a nationwide padyatra will stretch from November 26 to December 6 covering 152 km from Karamsad in Gujarat, Sardar Patel’s birthplace, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the tallest statue in his honour.
A contingent of 150 young leaders, selected through a national quiz competition, will also join this symbolic palkyatra, celebrating Patel’s enduring impact on the country’s fabric.
