Tura, Nov 22: In a show of unity honouring India’s “Iron Man” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, regarded as the architect of national integration and commemorating his 150th birth anniversary, West Garo Hills district administration, in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendra and the District Sports Office, organised a District Level Padyatra (Unity March) this morning in Tura to commemorate the event.
The programme also encouraged the promotion of the national spirit- Ek Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, echoing the message of unity, patriotism and self-reliance.
The celebration at William Point park in Tura took off with a ceremonial garlanding of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s portrait by Smt. Linda B.K. Sangma, Deputy Director, Mera Yuva Bharat, West Garo Hills, who also delivered the welcome address, which was followed with a patriotic song by Pingera Club.
The Unity March was flagged off by the Chief Guest, Shri Marcuise N. Marak, Minister of Housing, PHE & Soil & Water Conservation Department. Also present were Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal, Saljagring M. Marak, District Sports Officer, along with other officials, students and civil society members.
Addressing the enthusiastic sportspersons at the event, Marcuise N. Marak termed the Unity March as a historic event, organised in honour of a “veritable Titan and steadfast steward who believed India is One.” He linked Sardar Patel’s legacy to present-day nation-building efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the vision of Viksit Bharat. Marak highlighted that today’s march forms part of the nationwide Sardar@150 Unity March initiative launched on 6th October 2025 by the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya.
He urged the youth to embrace the values of love, unity, peace and brotherhood and reminded them that just as Sardar Patel shaped India with courage and conviction, today’s generation too carries the responsibility of strengthening the nation.
In tune with the chief guest’s remarks, Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal, noted that the Unity March symbolised collective responsibility toward national development and underscored the relevance of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission. Encouraging support for local products and entrepreneurship, he cited local LED bulb manufacturing in the district as an example of grassroots innovation contributing to livelihood generation and economic self-reliance. He expressed confidence that adopting and promoting similar initiatives would contribute to a stronger and self-reliant India.
Participants later took the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to unity, responsible citizenship and national progress.
The padyatra route covered William Point → Hawakhana → Tetengkol → Jerusalem → Hawakhana Petrol Pump → Members Hostel → Babupara, concluding at DC Park. Hundreds of youths, residents, government officials and community leaders walked together, symbolising unity and shared purpose.
