The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the ‘Sardar@150’ initiative to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, through a nationwide Unity Run. The event will run from October 31 to November 25, with padyatras in all 779 districts of the country.
On Monday, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse unveiled this significant initiative at the picturesque 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, this initiative seeks to channel young Indians’ energy towards strengthening national unity,” emphasized Mandaviya.
Participants will engage in three-day events in every parliamentary constituency, walking 8 to 10 km daily. These padyatras aim to honor Sardar Patel’s efforts in national integration and are expected to draw a massive support from citizens.
“Every district will play a role in these padyatras to pay tribute to Sardar Patel and his unparalleled contribution to India,” Mandaviya confirmed.
Addressing concerns about participation in opposition-ruled states, including West Bengal, which is currently facing floods, Mandaviya assured that this initiative transcends politics.
“This is beyond politics, and I have full confidence that participation will be robust regardless of the ruling party,” he stated.
The padyatras will feature a range of leaders, including Union Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament, along with volunteers from My Bharat, NSS, and NCC. These individuals will help organize logistics and cleanliness drives throughout the events.
A highlight of the initiative is the specially organized padyatra from November 26 to December 6. This event will stretch 152 km from Karamsad in Gujarat, Sardar Patel’s birthplace, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, the tallest statue in his honor.
Moreover, a group of 150 young leaders will join this symbolic padyatra. These leaders will be selected through a national-level quiz competition, further engaging the youth in celebrating the legacy of the Iron Man of India.
