Junagadh, November 9 (IANS). The statewide Unity March began on a grand scale on the occasion of Junagadh Liberation Day in the historic city of Junagadh in Gujarat. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the march at 7 am, which is part of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel being celebrated with the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Thousands of people participated in this event, who took the oath of ‘Self-reliant India’ and reiterated the pledge of unity and integrity of the country.
This march was organized under the joint aegis of the Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department of the State Government and Junagadh District Administration. On 9 November 1947, Junagadh became an integral part of India after being freed from Nawabi rule. This merger was made possible by the visionary leadership and determination of Sardar Patel, which is remembered as ‘Junagarh Liberation Day’. The choice of this historic date is especially significant this year on the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. It not only refreshes the memory of history but also inspires the young generation to build a united India.
Launching the march, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said, “Congratulations to all. Best wishes to Sorath residents on Junagadh Liberation Day. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is celebrating the legacy of Sardar Patel.” Junagadh district in-charge Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Pradyumanbhai Waza, district co-in-charge Law Minister of State Kaushikbhai Vekaria, Mayor Dharmesh Poshia, MLAs and other officials were present with him. In an official video, CM Patel was seen leading the march, where slogans of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ were raised.
Every section of the society participated in the padyatra. College students, NCC-NSS cadets, Mai Bharat Volunteers, cooperative organizations, political parties, industrial and commercial organizations, religious institutions, saints, influencers, ex-servicemen families, sportspersons, progressive farmers, enlightened citizens, workers, social organizations, local body officials, self-help groups and a large number of common citizens participated. The march passed through major streets of the city, where participants waved the tricolor and stepped in step with the portraits of Sardar Patel. In the end everyone took oath under the Self-reliant India campaign, which included resolutions like de-addiction, vocal for local and environmental protection.
Let us tell you that this event is part of the Unity March being organized at the national level on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, which will run from 31 October to 26 November.
–IANS
SCH