Sardar Gatha Marks a Powerful Milestone in the Sardar@150 Unity March

The Sardar@150 Unity March, one of India’s largest and most sweeping youth-led nation-connect movements, reached a momentous stage today with the Sardar Gatha programme held in Gujarat’s Narmada district. Organised as part of the nationwide padyatra commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the event celebrated the Iron Man’s unparalleled role in uniting India and shaping the country’s federal and democratic framework.

Guided by the motto “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” the Unity March continues to carry forward Sardar Patel’s message of national cohesion, disciplined citizenship, and collective responsibility. As India strengthens its social, economic and strategic foundations, the padyatra—spanning hundreds of districts—has emerged as a symbol of rising national confidence, cultural pride, and renewed civic participation across communities.

Addressing the gathering, Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s youth in upholding Patel’s legacy. He stated:
“Sardar Patel gave India its unity; today, India’s youth are giving strength to that unity. Their participation in this padyatra shows a nation confident in its identity and committed to progress. This journey is not just a tribute to the Iron Man—it is a reaffirmation of our collective resolve to build a stronger, more self-reliant India.”

Chaudhary also offered floral tributes at the Statue of Unity, reaffirming the leadership’s commitment to Sardar Patel’s ideals of unity, discipline, and national resolve.

The event also honoured local citizens for their contributions to community development. Participants took the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, symbolically reinforcing the principles of self-confidence, patriotic duty and nation-first commitment. Youth volunteers, MY Bharat members and thousands of community participants enthusiastically joined the event.

The Sardar Gatha ceremony witnessed the presence of several distinguished leaders, including G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Coal & Mines; Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education & DoNER; and senior ministers from Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.

With participation from lakhs of citizens across states and union territories, the Sardar@150 Unity March has evolved into a mass movement with a blend of cultural outreach, environmental responsibility, youth leadership, and community service. Led by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and MY Bharat, the campaign has so far:

• Covered 640 districts

• Completed 1,500+ padyatras

• Engaged 15.5 lakh participants

• Conducted exhibitions, tree plantation drives, cleanliness programmes and awareness campaigns

The Unity March continues to strengthen the national spirit, carrying forward Sardar Patel’s enduring message of unity, resilience and nation-building.