- National Padyatra from Nov 26–Dec 6 to Mark 150th Birth Anniversary of Iron Man of India
- Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya: “Unity March will powerfully convey Sardar Patel’s ideals of integrity, simplicity and self-reliance”
- Dy CM Harsh Sanghvi calls for mass public participation; NDDB Meet finalises route, cultural & cleanliness initiatives
NE NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD, NOV 2
A national padyatra (Unity March) spanning nearly 150 kilometres from Karamsad to Kevadiya will be held from November 26 to December 6 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India and architect of national unity.
The march aims to highlight Sardar Patel’s pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and his historic efforts in integrating princely states to forge a united India.
Mandaviya: “Symbol of Simplicity and Self-Reliant India”
A high-level coordination meeting was held at the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Anand, chaired by Union Minister for Health and Chemicals & Fertilizers Mansukhbhai Mandaviya in the presence of Union Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse, to plan the smooth conduct of the padyatra. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi joined the discussions virtually.
Speaking at the meeting, Mandaviya described the Unity March as “an effective medium to convey Sardar Patel’s life and legacy to the people of India.”
“The national foot march must reflect the simplicity and selfless service that Sardar Patel embodied. Alongside celebrating his ideals, it should also showcase the spirit of a self-reliant and clean India, which he envisioned,” he said.
Mandaviya directed that NSS volunteers visit rural areas along the route a week before the march to educate people about Sardar Patel’s life and achievements. He also urged that village elders and contributors to rural development be honoured during the march.
Sanghvi: “Let’s Make It a People’s Movement”
Joining the meeting through video conference, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi called for the padyatra to become a mass movement of participation.
“Every section of society — students, youth, and senior citizens — should walk together for unity. Cultural programs, essay and quiz competitions in schools must connect the next generation with Sardar Patel’s vision,” Sanghvi said.
He proposed that local artists perform cultural programs on Sardar Patel’s life at each night halt of the padyatra, ensuring that every step becomes an act of learning and inspiration.
Focus on Cleanliness, Natural Farming and Patriotism
Agriculture Minister Jitubhai Vaghani suggested that each village en route host exhibition stalls on natural farming and promote the Swachh Bharat (Clean India) message. He emphasized that the padyatra should mirror Sardar Patel’s strength, simplicity and commitment to the nation.
The meeting also saw participation from Union Minister of State for Defence Nikhil Khadse, BJP National General Secretary Sunil Bansal, Gujarat State President Jagdish Vishwakarma, State General Secretary Ratnakarji, District Leader Sanjay Patel, and Union Youth and Sports Secretary Pallavi Jain, among others.
They shared detailed suggestions on route management, night halts, public amenities, food arrangements, tree plantation (562 saplings under ‘Ek Pad Ma Ke Naam’ initiative), and creation of a Sardar Smriti Van along the route to immortalize the yatra’s spirit.
Meticulous Planning for a National Tribute
Principal Secretary (Sports and Youth Cultural Activities Department) Ashwini Kumar welcomed the dignitaries and presented a detailed outline of the padyatra’s logistics. He reaffirmed the State’s commitment to executing the Unity March in line with the guidance and suggestions of the ministers and dignitaries.
Before the meeting, Union Minister Mandaviya and other dignitaries visited Sardar Patel’s ancestral home in Karamsad and paid floral tributes at his statue, marking a solemn start to preparations for what promises to be a historic walk of unity and remembrance.
“The Unity March will be more than a tribute — it will be a living expression of national unity, carrying Sardar Patel’s ideals from his birthplace in Karamsad to the towering Statue of Unity in Kevadiya,” Mandaviya said.
