GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, flagged off a run to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Nehru Stadium here on Monday.
The 'Run for Unity' saw the participation of a large number of people, including students, sports personalities, sports enthusiasts, ASHA and health workers, Anganwadi workers, and personnel from police forces among others.
Sarma also administered a unity pledge to the participants of the run.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister paid rich tributes to Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the latter's birth anniversary and said that this great man with his steely resolve and decisive leadership laid the foundation for a united India.
He said that the day has been celebrated across the country to invigorate the young minds with the unity, harmony and sense of security of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Chief Minister called upon the youth to imbibe the ideals of Sardar Patel, the great unifier, and contribute to strengthen and promote the idea of an Akhand Bharat.
Shedding light on the life of the Iron Man, Sarma said that Sardar Patel was a clear headed, powerful and honest man who provided decisive leadership during the Satyagraha Movement launched against the British in 1942. As a result of this, Mahatma Gandhi adorned him with title 'Sardar'. Even during complex situation, Sardar Patel used to take pragmatic and decisive decisions which were some of his characteristic traits. The Chief Minister also said that even Lord Mountbatten appreciated Sardar Patel who played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the country.
In order to commemorate the birth anniversary of this great soul, 'Rashtriya Ekta Divas' is being celebrated across the country and as a part of this 'Run for Unity' was organized in 3,500 places in 35 districts of the State.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways etc., Sarbananda Sonowal, who was present on the occasion, also spoke on the role of Sardar Patel towards creating a unified India. He also appealed to all to emulate the ideology of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and contribute to the making of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.
Handloom and Textile Minister UG Brahma, Rajya Sabha MP Bhubaneswar Kalita, GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania and a host of dignitaries were present on the occasion, stated an official communiqué.
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