CM Bhajanlal Sharma Leads Unity March on Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, united the princely states after Independence and laid the foundation of a strong nation. Sardar Patel awakened the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” in the hearts of people. His vision of a unified nation built on the strength of diversity remains equally relevant today. The Chief Minister urged the youth to keep national interest and unity above everything else and contribute to building a strong and self-reliant India.

Sharma was addressing the “Unity March” organised under “Sardar@150” on Friday to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. He said that after Independence, more than 560 princely states existed, and some wanted to remain independent. Sardar Patel convinced their rulers that the future of their people lay in joining a united India. While many states joined voluntarily, some required political pressure. Through his visionary leadership, states like Junagadh and Hyderabad also became an integral part of India. His determination made the vision of modern India possible.

Chief Minister walks 3 km with citizens

As part of the Unity March, Chief Minister Sharma walked 3 km from Gandhi Circle to Amar Jawan Jyoti, holding the national flag, accompanied by public representatives and citizens for about 40 minutes. A large crowd enthusiastically joined the march, chanting slogans of patriotism and unity. People showered flowers on the Chief Minister and welcomed him at JDA Circle and Rambagh Circle. Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore, public representatives, sportspersons, RAC personnel, NCC and NSS cadets, Scouts and Guides, and students from universities and colleges also joined the march. At Amar Jawan Jyoti, the Chief Minister offered flowers at Sardar Patel’s statue and laid a wreath to honour the martyrs.

PM fulfilled Sardar Patel’s unfinished dream by removing Article 370

Sharma said that Sardar Patel’s vision for complete national integration was not followed in Kashmir, where Article 370 was imposed. However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that unfinished dream has been fulfilled. By removing Article 370, the Prime Minister opened the path for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is now a complete and inseparable part of India, which is a true tribute to Sardar Patel.

Government committed to empowering youth

He said the state government is committed to youth empowerment. Over the past two years, more than 91,000 youths have received government jobs, and recruitment for more than 150,000 posts is underway. Loans worth ₹140 crore have been sanctioned for young entrepreneurs. He assured the youth that not a single exam paper has been leaked during his government’s tenure. “Work hard with full dedication; the government stands with you,” he said.

Unity March brings alive Sardar Patel’s ideals

Sharma added that the Unity March, held during National Unity Fortnight, is a commitment to achieving the dream of a “Developed Rajasthan–Developed India.” Participating in the march brings alive the ideals of Sardar Patel. Just as he united 560 princely states, people today must strengthen unity in diversity. He said youth are India’s biggest strength—when youth power awakens, no goal is impossible. He urged citizens to actively participate in realising Sardar Patel’s vision for India.

The Chief Minister also administered the oath of a self-reliant India to the public. Earlier, he offered floral tributes at the statues of Sardar Patel and Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Circle.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Minister Colonel Rathore, MPs Ghanshyam Tiwari and Manju Sharma, MLAs Kalicharan Saraf, Jitendra Gothwal, Gopal Sharma, Dr. Kailash Verma, Balmukundacharya, DGP Rajiv Kumar Sharma, and many others were present.