On the occasion of 140th birth anniversary of Independent India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chief Minister Raman Singh on Saturday flagged off a ‘National Unity Marathon’ in the city.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced the international hockey stadium at Government Science College Campus in Raipur would be named after ‘Iron Man’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
After flagging off the marathon, Singh participated in the event with the general public. At the event, Chief Minister paid tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by garlanding his picture. He administered pledge of maintaining national unity, integrity and security of the country to the gathering consisting of a large number of people and students. The programme was organised by State Government’s Sports and Youth Welfare Department near Telibandha pond (Marine Drive).
In his address , Singh said that the first Deputy Prime Minister and first Home Minister of the country Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary is being celebrated as ‘National Unity Day’ across the country. People of Chhattisgarh are also participating enthusiastically in this nation-wide event. The Chief Minister said that the country will never forget the contribution of Sardar Patel for nation’s unity and farmer welfare.
He further said that when India achieved independence, it had nearly six hundred territories. But, Sardar Patel had a different vision of Independent India. British rulers, while leaving India, left these territories to the wishes of their respective rulers for wanting to merge with India or Pakistan or to remain independent by not joining either States, Singh said.
Under the influence of British officials, some small rulers made up their mind to make their territories as ‘independent nations’. The Nizam of Hyderabad, Nawabs of Junagadh and Bhopal and other such rulers had even started their offices in Karachi, Pakistan. In that scenario, Sardar Patel emerged as an Iron Man to save the unity and integrity of the country, he said.
The Chief Minister mentioned that Iron Man Sardar Patel saved India from conspiracy of British rulers and their officials. His vision and strong policy ensured integration of all the territories to the Indian Republic. His valour and vision shaped the powerful independent India, where we enjoy our freedom today, he said.
Singh went on to say that the country will always be grateful to Sardar Patel and his contribution would be remembered for coming generations. Now, it is the responsibility of youth to strengthen and empower the country.
Meanwhile, National Unity Marathon commenced from Telibandha pond and after crossing Main Road, it concluded at Ghadi Chowk in the city. Here, people from all sections of society including students of various schools in Raipur, youngsters, senior citizens, women, sportspersons, NCC and Scouts and public representatives participated to spread the message of national unity, he said.