Lucknow, Oct 12 (NationPress) The Uttar Pradesh government is gearing up to honor the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, with an array of events throughout the state, highlighted by a 'Run for Unity'.

Five youth representatives, including athletes and artists from each district, will embark on this significant journey. They will travel by bus to four key locations leading to Karamsad, Gujarat, the birthplace of Sardar Patel, and subsequently participate in a 150-kilometer national padayatra from Karamsad to Kevadia, where the Statue of Unity is located.

Thousands of young individuals from across the nation will join this march, advocating for national unity and the objectives of the Jan Jagran Abhiyan.

In a press briefing held on Sunday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath elaborated on the comprehensive plans for state-wide celebrations. He revealed that a three-day padayatra, covering between 8 to 10 kilometers, will take place in every Lok Sabha constituency, navigating all Vidhan Sabha segments.

Prior to the padayatra, various awareness initiatives will be executed at the community level, including essay writing and debate contests, seminars on the life and contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, street plays, and discussions.

Moreover, youth-focused campaigns such as a Drug-Free India pledge, the 'Vocal for Local' and 'Local for Global' initiatives, alongside yoga and health camps, will be rolled out statewide.

A special cleanliness campaign will also be launched. During the padyatra, local committees, social organizations, and cultural groups will hold wreath-laying and tribute events at statues of Sardar Patel.

CM Yogi further mentioned that, in line with the commitment to foster a self-reliant India stemming from a united India, cultural events showcasing the life and vision of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel will be conducted. All participants will receive certificates. The initiative will thrive with active participation from ministers, MPs, MLAs, party workers, NCC and NSS members, and organizations like Mai Bharat.

He stressed that large-scale events will be organized from October 31 (the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel) to November 26 (Constitution Day). CM Yogi highlighted Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as not just a prominent freedom fighter, but also as the architect of a united India.

"Sardar Patel's unparalleled leadership and determination led to the unification of over 500 princely states into the Republic of India, forming the modern nation we recognize today. Despite facing opposition from certain princely states like Junagadh and Hyderabad, Sardar Patel’s unwavering resolve ensured their integration into India, fortifying the nation’s unity and integrity," he stated.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that since 2014, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has been commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary as National Unity Day.

The BJP has been organizing the 'Run for Unity' each year to pay tribute to the legacy of Sardar Patel. Continuing this tradition, a 'Run for Unity' will again be held across the nation and the state on October 31 to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary.