State celebrates Sardar Patel’s legacy and youth-driven national integration.
SHILLONG, Oct 31 (The CONNECT): Meghalaya joined the nationwide celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) by hosting the Sardar @ 150 Unity March to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India’s political unification. The event, organised under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports with Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) as the nodal body, was coordinated locally by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, along with NSS and NCC Meghalaya.
The celebration was attended by Member of Rajya Sabha Rameswar Teli and Meghalaya Minister for Arts and Culture Sanbor Shullai. Addressing the gathering, Teli said the march symbolised the values Patel stood for—national unity, integrity, and collective resolve. He recalled Patel’s role in uniting over 560 princely states and noted that the spirit of unity continues to guide India’s progress. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from Patel’s discipline and dedication, calling upon them to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Speaking at the march, Sanbor Shullai highlighted that the objective of the campaign was not only to pay tribute to Sardar Patel but also to reinforce the ideals of unity and peaceful coexistence. Referencing the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he appealed to young people to uphold the values of love, brotherhood, and social harmony.
The event included a floral tribute ceremony at the State Central Library Campus, followed by cultural performances showcasing Meghalaya’s indigenous heritage. Teli and Shullai jointly flagged off the Unity March, which proceeded to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium with enthusiastic participation from MY Bharat volunteers, NCC cadets, NSS members, students, and local residents.
The march reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the national vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, emphasizing unity as the foundation of India’s shared future.
