Sardar Patel Became the Iron Man Through His Hard Work and Determination: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

At the National Unity Day programme, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, became the “Iron Man of India” through his relentless hard work and unwavering determination. In the difficult conditions following Independence, he united 562 princely states into one nation with his sharp political insight and steely resolve. His contribution to farmers’ struggles and the freedom movement remains invaluable. The programme was organised at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur by the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare. Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Shri Arun Sao, Minister for Skill Development and Technical Education Shri Guru Khushwant Saheb, and MLA Shri Rajesh Munat were present on the occasion.

Remembering Patel’s monumental contribution on his 150th birth anniversary, the Chief Minister said, “With his extraordinary vision and unbreakable willpower, Sardar Patel united the fragmented princely states and shaped an undivided India.” Patel’s life symbolizes national unity, integrity, and dedication. He added that many programmes are being held across the country to mark the 150th anniversary. Chhattisgarh has also been invited to the national event in Kevadia, Gujarat, where the state has set up a special stall. He said the ‘Run for Unity’ is not only a symbol of national unity but also promotes fitness and collective spirit.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao extended greetings on National Unity Day and said that Patel fought fiercely against British rule for India’s freedom and farmers’ rights. His birth anniversary is observed as National Unity Day to honour his contributions. As India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Patel laid the foundation of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India).

Deputy Chief Minister Sao announced that grand statues of Sardar Patel will be installed in all divisional headquarters of the state. For this, the Urban Administration and Development Department will provide ₹50 lakh each to the respective urban bodies.

During the programme, Chief Minister Sai honoured the family members of freedom fighters by presenting them shawls and coconuts. He also viewed rangoli and art displays created by participants and administered an oath to adopt swadeshi products and promote the use of goods manufactured in India.

To mark National Unity Day, the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare organised several competitions—rangoli, painting, speech, and poetry recitation—for college students, along with the Run for Unity. The Chief Minister awarded the winners of these competitions and flagged off the Run for Unity participants. He also flagged off the promotional van for the “Bastar Olympics,” which will travel across all districts of the Bastar division to promote the event.

In his welcome address, Secretary of the Department, Shri Yashwant Kumar, provided details of the various programmes being held under the “Sardar@150 Unity March,” which will continue for the next one-and-a-half months.

Director of the Department Shri­mati Tanuja Salam, family members of freedom fighters, departmental officers, sportspersons, and a large number of college students were present at the event.