Meghalaya celebrated ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ (National Unity Day) with fervour, joining the nationwide ‘Sardar @ 150 Unity March’ campaign to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, ‘The Iron Man of India’.

The event is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, with Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) as the nodal department, jointly organized in Shillong by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, National Service Scheme (NSS), and National Cadet Corps (NCC), Meghalaya.

In his keynote address, Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha, stated, "Today, we are all gathered here to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's great son, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Ji.” He emphasized that the march is not just a program; it is a symbol of our country's unity, integrity, and the spirit of nation-building. Honouring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as the "Loh Purush" (Iron Man) who united over 560 princely states, Teli connected his legacy to the present day. He noted that under the leadership of India's Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country is moving forward on that same path of unity and faith. He concluded with a call for attendees, especially the youth, to take inspiration from the life of Sardar Patel and adopt his discipline, courage, and spirit of service to the nation.

 

The program was held at the State Central Library Campus, with the ceremonial offering of floral tributes to Saradar Vallabhbhai Patel by the dignitaries and guests, followed by an official felicitation ceremony. A vibrant local cultural performance was presented, captivating the audience, showcasing Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage.

Shri Rameswar Teli, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha, and Shri Sanbor Shullai, Hon’ble Minister of Arts and Culture, Govt. of Meghalaya, flagged off the Unity March from the State Central Library Campus in the presence of all the dignitaries to culminate at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.

The Unity March saw an active participation from MY Bharat Volunteers, NSS volunteers and NCC cadets, students, and officials from the District Administration. The march carried the messages of national unity and patriotism, reinforcing the core idea of unity across the society.

The successful organisation of the Unity March underscored the State’s alignment with the broader national goal of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.