Gujarat Chief Minister Launches 'Sardar Ekta Yatra' to Promote Unity
Inauguration of the Yatra
Ahmedabad, March 5: Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel officially launched the 'Sardar Ekta Yatra' in Ahmedabad on Thursday, emphasizing that this initiative aims to spread the principles of unity, patriotism, and national service associated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel throughout the nation.
The yatra, organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Kurmi Patidar Mahasabha, will traverse various regions of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, featuring exhibitions of artifacts related to Sardar Patel's life for public engagement.
Celebrating Sardar Patel's Legacy
During the event, the Chief Minister highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently honored Patel's legacy. He stated, “Since 2014, the Prime Minister has established the tradition of celebrating Sardar Saheb’s birth anniversary as National Unity Day across the country. The construction of the Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world, stands as a remarkable tribute to the Iron Man, Sardar Patel.”
Patel remarked that this statue has become a global emblem of India's unity and integrity.
Promoting National Unity
Reflecting on the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, the Chief Minister noted that the celebrations are inspired by the Prime Minister's vision. He stated, “As the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel unified 565 princely states into a single nation, creating a united and indivisible India.”
He expressed that efforts are underway to disseminate Sardar Patel’s ideals and values across the country under the vision of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat'.
Call to Action
Patel urged citizens to commit to enhancing the nation's unity and integrity, advocating for the principle of swadeshi (indigenous). He stated, “Incorporating swadeshi into our lives is essential. If we unite and strive for a developed India, building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, it will be the ultimate tribute to Sardar Saheb.”
Satishbhai Patel, head of K.P. Vidyarthi Bhavan and organizer of the yatra, along with former Minister Gordhan Zadafia, shared insights about the nationwide initiative.
As the yatra commenced, slogans of “Jai Sardar, Sabke Sardar” resonated among the attendees, which included Patidar community leaders, members of the organizing body, Sardar National Memorial Honorary Minister R.S. Patel, and students.