Ahmedabad: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday flagged off the ‘Sardar Ekta Yatra’ from Ahmedabad, highlighting that the initiative aims to spread the ideals of unity, patriotism and national service associated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel across the country.
The yatra has been organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Kurmi Patidar Mahasabha and will travel through several regions of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
During the journey, the organisers will also display rare artefacts and items related to Sardar Patel’s life, allowing the public to learn more about his contributions to the nation.
Tribute to the Legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Addressing the gathering before flagging off the yatra, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel emphasised the historic role played by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India.
He noted that Patel played a decisive role in uniting 565 princely states, which helped shape a united and indivisible India after independence.
According to the Chief Minister, the yatra will help connect people—especially the younger generation—with the values and ideals that defined Sardar Patel’s leadership.
PM Narendra Modi Honouring Sardar Patel’s Legacy
During his address, Patel also highlighted the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in honouring the legacy of Sardar Patel.
He said that since 2014, the Prime Minister has initiated the tradition of celebrating October 31, Sardar Patel’s birth anniversary, as National Unity Day across the country.
The Chief Minister further mentioned that the construction of the Statue of Unity in Kevadia—the world’s tallest statue—stands as a monumental tribute to the Iron Man of India.
He added that the statue has become a global symbol of India’s unity and integrity.
Celebrations of Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary
Patel also referred to the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which are being organised across the country under the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
These events aim to promote Patel’s ideals of national unity, strong governance, and dedication to the nation.
The Chief Minister said that initiatives like the Sardar Ekta Yatra are part of a larger effort to take Patel’s life values and vision to people nationwide.
Vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’
Highlighting the broader national vision, Bhupendra Patel said the government is working towards the goal of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”, which focuses on strengthening unity among diverse communities.
He stated that the Prime Minister has resolved to awaken the spirit of “Nation First” in every citizen, similar to the ideals championed by Sardar Patel.
Call for Unity and Swadeshi
The Chief Minister also urged citizens to remain committed to strengthening the unity and integrity of the country.
He emphasised the importance of adopting the principle of swadeshi, saying that promoting indigenous products and self-reliance is essential for India’s future.
According to Patel, building a developed India and an Aatmanirbhar Bharat would be the true tribute to Sardar Patel’s legacy.
Community Leaders and Students Join the Yatra
The programme was attended by several community leaders and organisers, including Satishbhai Patel, head of K.P. Vidyarthi Bhavan and the main organiser of the yatra, along with former minister Gordhan Zadafia.
Representatives from the Patidar community, leaders of the organising body, **Sardar National Memorial honorary minister R. S. Patel, and students were also present at the event.
