Ahmedabad, Nov 26 (NationPress) Gujarat has been the backdrop for the inaugural 'Sardar@Unity March', which commenced from the birthplace of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Karamsad, as part of the nationwide festivities celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of India's Iron Man.

This padyatra, scheduled to traverse from Karamsad to Kevadia from November 26 until December 5, is focused on propagating Patel's ideals of national unity and fostering a sense of patriotism among the youth of the nation.

The march was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, with the presence of BJP Gujarat president Jagdish Vishwakarma, numerous ministers, MPs, MLAs, and enthusiastic youth from various parts of India.

In a special address, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha characterized the Unity March as a homage to the foundational unity of independent India and to Patel's unmatched legacy.

On Constitution Day, Chief Minister Patel honored Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and the Constitution-drafting committee members.

He highlighted the coincidence of the celebrations with Patel's 150th anniversary alongside the national observance of the 150 years of Vande Mataram and the birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda.

In his address, CM Patel remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has remained committed to realizing Patel's vision of a cohesive and self-sufficient India. He recalled Patel's critical role in unifying 562 princely states into one nation and referred to the Statue of Unity as the tallest statue in the world and a “living emblem of India’s strength and pride.”

He also mentioned that under PM Modi’s leadership, the revocation of Article 370 fulfilled the long-held aspiration of complete national integration.

Moreover, he asserted that Patel’s dedication to workers and farmers is demonstrated in the enactment of India's four new labor codes.

The 152-km march is not merely a symbolic act, Patel noted, but a “pathway of patriotism” that will resonate messages of unity throughout Gujarat. He emphasized that the padyatra is being conducted concurrently across all states, with significant youth involvement.

During the march, various cultural events, public assemblies, and storytelling sessions called 'Sardar Gaatha' will be conducted to enlighten people on Patel's principles and life lessons.

Gujarat BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma rallied the audience with a spirited 'Jay Sardar', underscoring the importance of Constitution Day in India’s democratic history.

He expressed pride that the nation is concurrently celebrating 150 years of Sardar Patel, Birsa Munda, and Vande Mataram.

He encouraged citizens, especially the youth, to align with PM Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by embracing indigenous products in their daily lives.

Vishwakarma also stated that PM Modi has elevated India's standing on the global stage and enhanced the respect accorded to Indian citizens worldwide.

He remarked that Patel’s legacy serves as a source of inspiration for the youth, portraying him as a leader of iron will and unparalleled determination.

The event was graced by the participation of Tripura CM Manik Saha, BJP National General Secretary Sunil Bansal, Union Ministers Anupriya Patel and Nimuben Bambhaniya, senior BJP officials, state ministers, MPs, MLAs, and thousands of enthusiastic youth from various regions.