Nagaland marked Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary with Unity Marches and events promoting harmony across several districts.
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DIMAPUR — Events commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, including Unity Marches (padayatras), were held in Kohima, Tuensang, Longkhim, and Phek.
A padayatra, organised by My Bharat-Kohima under the Ministry of Youth Resources and Sports in coordination with the district administration, was held at Kohima College, Kohima, on Wednesday, with the message of unity, according to a DIPR report.
Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA, attended the programme as the special guest. Drawing parallels to Naga society, he emphasised that the spirit of unity demonstrated by Sardar Patel remains deeply relevant today.
“If Sardar Patel could unite over 560 princely states, why can’t we unite a handful of tribes in our society?” Rhütso asked, calling on young people to rise above tribalistic tendencies and work for harmony among the Nagas. He further encouraged students to see themselves not just as citizens of a tribe or region but as future “international citizens” with broad and inclusive perspectives.
B Henok Buchem, DC Kohima, said the occasion was a meaningful moment to reflect on the purpose behind public service and community responsibility. Recalling his study of Patel’s biography, Buchem said Sardar Patel was the backbone of Mahatma Gandhi’s success.
The Unity March began from the Kohima College campus and proceeded up to the Nagaland Civil Secretariat Junction, with students and participants joining in the spirited march.
Also read: Phek, Meluri observe Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary
A Unity March was also held at Town Hall, Tuensang, on November 18, with P Bashangmongba Chang, minister for Housing and Mechanical (PWD), as the special guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister highlighted that, through his vision and determination, Patel laid the foundation of a united nation—diverse in culture, rich in heritage, yet united in spirit.
The minister exhorted the gathering to inherit the spirit of oneness which Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had strongly advocated and carry forth his legacy for the peaceful co-existence of our future generations.
The Unity March was flagged off by Minister P Bashangmongba Chang from Clock Tower to Town Hall, Tuensang, led by the Hauyang Chuba Pipe Band. The event was participated in by government officials from various departments, ward representatives, and college and school students from Tuensang.
A Unity March was held at Phek on Wednesday with Chetezo Akami, deputy chairperson of the Phek Town Council as special guest. The special guest flagged off the march at the DC office junction in the presence of government employees, students, colony/ward leaders and the general public.
The march ended at Public ground with a short formal programme, where the special guest delivered his speech and shared a brief history of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Meanwhile, a culmination programme of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was held on November 18 at DUDA Hall, Longkhim.
Speaking on the occasion, S Chingmei, EAC Longkhim, briefed about the initiative and contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai and described him as a great leader of India.
Marking the celebration, the following activities were carried out successfully: a cleanliness drive, a Unity March, an essay-writing competition, a debate and poster making.