Chandigarh, October 7, 2025-The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today addressed a press conference at Guru Nanak Auditorium, Punjab Raj Bhavan, to announce the launch of the ‘Sardar@150 – Unity March’ campaign. The initiative marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, and celebrates his monumental role in unifying the nation.

The Governor extended his best wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Valmiki Jayanti, a symbol of purity, knowledge and moral strength, and informed that Dr. Rajendra Prasad had also announced on this day to make Chandigarh the capital.

Shri Kataria recalled that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s greatest contribution was the unification of over 560 princely states into a single nation, a task that required unmatched courage, foresight, and diplomacy. “Integrating the princely states into one India was no easy task. His leadership inspired the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, and Sashakt Bharat’,” he remarked.

He added that Sardar Patel’s wisdom and firm resolve ensured India’s unity during a time of great uncertainty. “Today, we have an India that stands united because of his far-sightedness and statesmanship — that is why he is called the Iron Man of India,” said the Governor.

Reflecting on Patel’s legacy, Shri Kataria said that freedom was only the beginning of India’s journey, but understanding and continuing Patel’s mission remains the responsibility of today’s generation. “Sardar Patel worked for the India of tomorrow. It is now our duty to ensure that his vision continues to guide us toward a stronger, self-reliant India,” he stated.

He further urged the youth to actively participate in the campaign and register themselves at www.mybharat.gov.in/mega_event to become a part of this nationwide movement dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Highlighting the campaign details, the Governor informed that the ‘Sardar@150 – Unity March’ will run from 6th October to 6th December 2025, featuring a series of national activities aimed at connecting youth to the values of unity, patriotism, and nation-building.

A range of youth-centric initiatives including open discussions, debates, creative competitions, storytelling sessions, exhibitions, and awareness drives will be organized across Chandigarh under the MY Bharat platform. The campaign aims to encourage young people to express their vision of India in 2047, reflecting the aspirations of a developed and empowered nation.

The Governor emphasized that youth power will decide the shape of India in 2047, saying, “The future of India lies in the strength, vision, and commitment of its young citizens. Through open discussions and healthy debates, we want to understand their dreams for a developed India.”

He also made a heartfelt appeal to the youth to actively contribute towards building a drug-free Punjab, remarking, “If we wish to make India strong, we must make Punjab drug-free. A nation’s strength lies in the discipline and health of its youth.”