Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which is also observed as National Unity Day, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Ekta Dauda (Run for Unity) at Kalinga Stadium today. The event, organized by the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, saw participation from senior officers, students, sportspersons, and a large number of citizens. The race commenced at Kalinga Stadium and concluded at Power House Chack.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the pivotal role of unity, brotherhood, and patriotism as the core strength of a developed India. He emphasized that the nation’s spirit lies in its “unity in diversity,” stating that the collective self-awareness of being Indian, irrespective of caste, religion, or language, is what keeps the country united and strong.
Shri Majhi paid rich tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, recalling his monumental contribution to nation-building. He highlighted that Sardar Patel was the great leader who, by weaving hundreds of princely states together with the thread of unity, built an integrated India. The Chief Minister stressed that it is due to Sardar Patel’s strong concept and vision that India is seen as a unified nation today.
The Chief Minister appealed to all citizens to work together in a united manner to realize the dream of a developed India soon, noting that the Ekta Dauda itself symbolizes this spirit of unity, harmony, and patriotism. He also recalled that the “Run for Unity” program was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2014, and the 182-meter-high “Statue of Unity” of Sardar Patel in Kevadia, Gujarat, was unveiled in 2018, standing today as the world’s largest statue and a proud symbol of Indian identity.
Shri Majhi concluded by stating that the run serves as a reminder that unity is the collective desire and strength of the nation. He urged everyone to be inspired by Sardar Patel’s life and unite to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, peace, and prosperity, thereby building a prosperous Odisha and a developed India.
Earlier in the program, Sports Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj delivered a welcome speech, emphasizing the importance of using the run to awaken the spirit of unity, harmony, and patriotism for continuous progress toward a strong India. The event concluded with the Secretary Sports & Youth Services, Shri Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav proposing the vote of thanks.