As part of the nationwide commemoration of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, promoting the spirit of Ek Bharat-Aatmanirbhar Bharat (One India, Self-reliant India), the District Administration, East Jaintia Hills District in collaboration with the office of the District School Education Officer (DSEO), East Jaintia Hills District successfully organized a Unity March (Padyatra) which commenced from the premises of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Khliehriat and culminated at Khliehriat Higher Secondary School, Khliehriat following which a programme was held in the auditorium of the school which was attended by Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)- Sadar, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri. Manish Kumar, IAS alongside District School Education Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri. R. Diengdoh, Principal of Jaintia Eastern College (JEC), Khliehriat, Dr. P Nongtdu, teachers and students from different educational institutions of the district.
Addressing the gathering at the auditorium of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School,Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)- Sadar, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri. Manish Kumar, IAS highlighted the significance of celebrating the 150thBirth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the great freedom fighter and architect of India’s unity. He emphasized the need to learn from Sardar Patel’s life;his vision, ideas, decisiveness and dedication which continues to guide the nation even today.
Shri Kumar reminded the gathering that India is not just a geographical territory or a collection of people but a nation bound by shared emotions, values and history. Reflecting on India’s long freedom struggle, he stressed the importance of patience, hard work and resilience; qualities which help individuals overcome challenges and achieve success. He also underlined the values of unity and integrity that Sardar Patel stood for.
Shri. Kumar, further spoke about India’s strength in diversity, drawing examples from the Northeast and Meghalaya, where different cultures, languagesand faiths coexist harmoniously. He also emphasized the responsibilities that come with rights while also he urging everyone to respect each other’s culture, language and beliefs.
Shri. Kumar, concluded his speech by urging the students to draw inspiration from Sardar Patel’s commitment to justice and people’s welfare and wished them success in all their future endeavours.
During the programme all dignitaries and attendees led by Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)-Sadar, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri. Manish Kumar, IAS, took a pledge to take responsibility to work towards anAatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Other highlights of the celebration include cultural dances performance by students, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of East Jaintia Hills District.
The Unity March which was flagged earlier in the day by Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)-Sadar, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri. Manish Kumar, IAS witnessed the vibrant participation of students carrying the Tricolour, symbolising national unity and collective strength. It may be mentioned that the Sardar@150 Unity March is a nationwide initiative honouring the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. It symbolises his unparalleled role in unifying India.
