CM Bhupendra Patel flags off Sardar Ekta Yatra from Ahmedabad

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday flagged off the Sardar Ekta Yatra from Ahmedabad, emphasising that the initiative would help keep the ideals of unity, patriotism and dedication associated with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel alive among citizens.The Yatra, organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Kurmi Patidar Mahasabha, will travel across regions of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, showcasing exhibits and memorabilia related to the life and legacy of Sardar Patel, widely regarded as the architect of India’s unity and integrity.
Speaking at the event, Patel said that Narendra Modi has consistently honoured Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contribution to the nation. He noted that since 2014, Patel’s birth anniversary has been observed across the country as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to promote national unity.He also highlighted the construction of the Statue of Unity — the world’s tallest statue — as a tribute to the Iron Man of India and a symbol of the nation’s respect for his role in integrating the country.
Referring to the ongoing celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the chief minister said the national leadership is working to take Patel’s ideals to every citizen and strengthen the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. He recalled that as independent India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister, Patel played a decisive role in integrating 565 princely states to form a united nation.

Ahmedabad, Gujarat: CM Bhupendra Patel flagged off the Sardar Ekta Yatra

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Patel said the Sardar Ekta Yatra would help inspire people with the values of unity, patriotism and service. He congratulated the organisers for arranging exhibitions during the Yatra that present key moments from Sardar Patel’s life for public viewing.Calling for collective commitment to national unity and integrity, the chief minister urged citizens to adopt the mantra of Swadeshi in their daily lives. According to him, embracing self-reliance and working together to realise the vision of a Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat would be a true tribute to Sardar Patel.Satishbhai Patel, head of K. P. Vidyarthi Bhavan and organiser of the Yatra, delivered the welcome address, while former minister Gordhan Zadafia spoke about the broader plan to organise similar Sardar Ekta Yatra programmes across the country.As the procession began its journey, the slogan “Jai Sardar, Sabke Sardar!” resonated among the participants, reflecting the enthusiasm of supporters and admirers of Sardar Patel.Among those present were Patidar community leaders including Gagjibhai Sutariya, leaders of the Akhil Bharatiya Kurmi Patidar Mahasabha, R. S. Patel, along with a large number of students and supporters who gathered to witness the launch of the Yatra.

(State Correspondent)