Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a virtual review meeting from the Lohiahead Guest House in Khatima to assess preparations for the upcoming statewide campaign commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India and a symbol of national unity.
The Chief Minister directed district officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan to ensure the successful organisation of the “Ekta March” (Unity March) and other associated events across Uttarakhand. He said that the celebrations should be organised in a grand and inspiring manner, highlighting the contributions of Sardar Patel and promoting his vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Our correspondent reports that Chief Minister Dhami instructed officials to ensure active participation from youth, women, local bodies, NCC cadets, self-help groups, public representatives, and social organisations. He said that schools and colleges should organise cultural and awareness programmes to help the younger generation learn about Patel’s legacy and his role in building a united India.
He added that information about all events must be shared at the state level so that the campaign’s message reaches a wider audience. The Chief Minister emphasised that the objective of the initiative is to spread the message of national unity to every household and to inspire citizens through Patel’s courage, leadership, and vision.
Our correspondent adds that Dhami described Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as a statesman who used his courage and diplomatic skills to unite India’s princely states, laying the foundation of a strong and integrated nation. He said Patel’s contribution to the formation of modern India remains unparalleled, and his thoughts continue to guide the nation’s journey toward strength and harmony.
The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has carried forward Sardar Patel’s vision by strengthening India’s unity and national pride. He highlighted that the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat — the world’s tallest statue — stands as a monumental tribute to Patel’s ideals and India’s enduring unity.
Officials briefed the Chief Minister that the campaign will include social media contests, essay writing, quizzes, and the Young Leaders programme, with citizens encouraged to register on the My Bharat Portal to participate. As part of the campaign, a Unity March will be held across all 13 districts of Uttarakhand from October 31 to November 16, lasting three days in each district with an 8 to 10 kilometre walk per day open to all citizens.
In addition, a National Padayatra covering 152 kilometres from Karamsad (Sardar Patel’s birthplace) to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia will take place from November 26 to December 6. Two youth representatives from each district in Uttarakhand will participate, selected through the My Bharat Portal.
The meeting was attended by District Magistrate Nitin Bhadauria, Champawat District Magistrate Manish Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police Manikant Mishra, and, virtually, Special Principal Secretary (Sports) Amit Sinha, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari, along with all district magistrates.
The Chief Minister concluded by saying that the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel will be celebrated in a historic and inspiring manner, ensuring that the new generation draws inspiration from his life, courage, and dedication to the idea of a united India.
