The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will host nationwide padyatras starting October 31 to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a pivotal figure in India’s independence and first Home Minister. This initiative aims to engage Indian youth in nation-building and unity.
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, along with Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse, launched the ‘Sardar@150’ Unity Run initiative at Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi on Monday.
“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 from October 31 to November 25 in every one of India’s 779 districts. Each padyatra will span three days, covering a distance of 8 to 10 km daily.
Mandaviya expressed confidence that the padyatras would gain participation across the country. “All districts will honor Sardar Patel’s memory and his immense contributions towards national integration,” he added.
Regarding involvement from states governed by the opposition, notably West Bengal, which has faced flooding recently, Mandaviya assured that the initiative transcends politics. “This has got nothing to do with politics, and I am sure there will be wholehearted participation irrespective of who is in power,” he emphasized.
The padyatras will feature leadership from Union Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, and volunteers from organizations like My Bharat, NSS, and NCC. These groups will help manage logistics and cleanliness during the initiative.
A notable highlight includes a special padyatra organized 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 the world dedicated to him.
A group of 150 young leaders, who will be chosen through a national-level quiz competition, will partake in this symbolic padyatra to celebrate the legacy of the Iron Man of India.
