“From the ‘Ek Bharat’ envisioned by Sardar Patel to an Atmanirbhar Bharat under PM Narendra Modi, the nation is progressing forward in unity.” – — Sarbananda Sonowal
Vadodara: The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, joined other leaders today in the Sardar at 150 March. Sonowal remarked that the Sardar at150 National Unity March has “sparked a strong wave of patriotism throughout India and highlighted the commitment of the nation’s youth to realize Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of a united India.”
Speaking at the inaugural cultural event held at Aarana Lawns in Sevasi, as the padyatra made its way into Vadodara on Day 3, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal expressed that the march symbolizes collective determination and national pride. “The enthusiasm of our youth demonstrates that the spirit of Ek Bharat continues to motivate every citizen. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India is advancing with the mission of Shreshtha Bharat and a Viksit Bharat,” stated Sarbananda Sonowal.
The padyatra began from the Hare Krishna Temple at Anklav and drew strong participation from students, cultural groups, and community organisations. According to MY Bharat, the initiative has already seen 1,514 padyatras across more than 620 districts and 440 Lok Sabha constituencies, involving over 1.5 million citizens who have collectively covered 10,007 km nationwide.
The inaugural programme featured Sardar Gatha, themed “Vithalbhai – Maniben – Sardar,” followed by cultural performances including Gram Sabha, Nrutya Natika, and Bhajan Sandhya, celebrating unity through art and heritage. The padyatra will proceed on Saturday through key locations in Vadodara, culminating at Navlakhi Ground for a large cultural event. The 11-day march, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, continues to galvanise young India around the ideals of national integration and self-reliance.
The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal was accompanied by several esteemed dignitaries, including:
- Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment
- Ajay Tamta, Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways
- Sheeshpal Rajput, Chairman of the Gujarat State Yog Board
- Jagdishbhai Makwana, MLA and Deputy Chief Whip of the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha
- Vijaybhai Patel, MLA and Deputy Chief Whip of the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha
- Hemang Joshi, Member of Parliament (MP)
- Smt. Ranjanben Bhatt, former MP
- Narhari Amin, Former Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat and MP
- Jashubhai Bhilubhai Rathva, MP