Chandigarh, Oct 31 - Haryana Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the ‘Iron Man’, played a pivotal role in shaping India's unity. He commended the Central Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, for offering a sincere tribute to this great leader through the construction of the Statue of Unity.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering of children and young individuals during the ‘Run for Unity’ event held on the occasion of birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Trident hills, Pinjore today. Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh Gian Chand Gupta and Municipal Corporation Mayor, Sh Kulbhushan Goyal also present on this occasion.
While paying homage to ‘Iron Man’ on his birth anniversary, the Chief Minister emphasized the significance of the Run for Unity event, which takes place every year on October 31 across the nation. He said that millions of children, women, men, youth, and elderly individuals actively participate in this event, conveying a message of unity and national integrity. He expressed his fortune in being able to participate in this event at different locations each year for last several years.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel plays pivotal role in pre and post Independence – CM
Sh Manohar Lal said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was not only instrumental in the struggle for India's independence but also played a pivotal role in shaping the post-independence era. Before independence, the nation comprised 562 princely states, both large and small. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's unwavering commitment to the unity and integrity of the nation was seen when he successfully organized the integration of all these princely states into a cohesive system under the Indian Constitution.
He said that Run for Unity event is not merely a race but a powerful medium for instilling the values of unity and integrity in every citizen of the nation. It fosters a deep-seated patriotism, inspiring individuals to be willing to make sacrifices for the country. He further highlighted that various foreign powers are attempting to undermine India, but the resolve of the nation remains resolute - India will not allow anyone to look into its sovereignty and pride.
Chief Minister praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi for resolute decision-making in national interest
The Chief Minister also lauded Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, drawing parallels between him and the revered Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He said that Prime Minister has displayed a remarkable commitment to making tough decisions that are in the best interests of the nation and people of the country have happily accepted those decisions. In the best interest of the nation, the Prime Minister took a historic step by revoking Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir, a move that garnered commendation from every citizen of the country and was widely appreciated.
In a genuine tribute to the ‘Iron Man’, he said that Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi erected the world's tallest and grand statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Kevadiya, Gujarat. This monumental statue has not only enhanced the nation's pride but has also captured the world's admiration. He encouraged the youth and children to seize any opportunity to visit this remarkable statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel when they are in Gujarat.
During this event, the Chief Minister administered an oath to the assembled gathering, urging them to uphold the unity, integrity, and security of the nation. He called upon everyone to pledge their unwavering dedication to preserving these values and to spread this message to their fellow citizens. Before this momentous occasion, the Chief Minister initiated the Run for Unity, echoing the spirited slogan of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai." This event injected fresh enthusiasm into the hearts of the children and youth. Thousands of participants ran with zeal and determination, covering a distance of approximately 3 kilometers, concluding their journey at Amravati Vidyalaya, where they were warmly greeted with patriotic songs.
Vice Chairman Shivalik Development Board Om Prakash Devinagar, Chairperson, Haryana Women Commission Renu Bhatia, Special Officer (Community Policing and Outreach) Pankaj Nain and officers of district administration were also present on this occasion.