Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha today said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a pivotal role in safeguarding the unity and integrity of India, describing him as the architect of national integration.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Ekta Padyatra (Unity March) from Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala, held to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Dr. Saha emphasized that Patel’s leadership was instrumental in uniting the nation after independence.

“To commemorate his 150th birth anniversary, various programmes will be organized across the country throughout the year. Everyone must remain alert against forces that attempt to harm the nation’s integrity,” the Chief Minister said.

Dr. Saha highlighted that the Sardar @150 Unity March is being celebrated for the first time in Tripura under the initiative of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Tripura, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to instill a spirit of unity, patriotism, and civic responsibility among the youth. This initiative also serves as a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The younger generation must actively participate in building a united and self-reliant India—values that should be reflected not only in words but also in daily life and social conduct,” Dr. Saha added.

Recalling Patel’s historic contribution, the Chief Minister said, “After independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel integrated about 562 princely states into the Indian Union. His strong determination and decisive leadership made this possible, laying the foundation for a united India.”

Dr. Saha also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honoring Sardar Patel’s legacy through initiatives such as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), celebrated annually since 2014.

“In 2014, the Prime Minister launched the Run for Unity to pay homage to Sardar Patel’s efforts in unifying the nation. In 2018, he unveiled the Statue of Unity on the banks of the Narmada River in Gujarat — one of the tallest statues in the world — as a symbol of national pride,” he said.

He further noted that both the Union and State governments have planned a series of events throughout the year to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

“Following Sardar Patel’s ideals, the Prime Minister has pledged to build a stronger, more united, and self-reliant India. We must all contribute to realizing that vision,” Dr. Saha concluded.