HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Nov 13: In a vibrant celebration of unity, patriotism and cultural pride, the District Administration Cachar in collaboration with Dholai Co-District Administration and My Bharat Cachar marked the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Dholai on Thursday. The daylong event, supported by various state government departments, NGOs, clubs and educational institutions, showcased India’s spirit of integrity and resilience.
The celebrations commenced with a massive Unity March from BNMP School, Dholai flagged off by Silchar MP Parimal Suklabaidya, Dholai MLA Nihar Ranjan Das and Co-District Commissioner Roktim Baruah, ACS. Over a thousand students, youth volunteers and local citizens joined the march, carrying messages of peace, harmony and a self-reliant India. The procession passed through key roads of Dholai and culminated at the District Conference Auditorium, where thousands paid floral tributes to Bharat Mata.
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Addressing the gathering, MP Suklabaidya lauded Sardar Patel’s role in uniting 562 princely states into one nation and highlighted the Modi Government’s initiatives like the Statue of Unity and the Run for Unity programme. He emphasised Patel’s farsightedness, political acumen and unwavering nationalism, stating that India owes its unity and stability to the Iron Man’s leadership. MLA Nihar Ranjan Das urged the youth to draw inspiration from Patel’s ideals of discipline, nationalism and self-reliance to build a nation free from division and apathy. Co-District Commissioner Roktim Baruah described Patel’s life as a roadmap for modern India, linking unity with collective development.
The event featured cultural performances including patriotic songs and traditional dances like Bihu, Dhamail, Manipuri and Dimasa, presented by local artists. Sonai Circle Officer Maria Tanim, ACS, administered an oath to youth to stay away from drugs and dedicate themselves to nation-building. A Swadeshi Mela by Self Help Groups showcased local crafts and foods, promoting the “Vocal for Local” initiative.
The celebrations concluded with a plantation drive themed “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” symbolising a greener and united India, with saplings planted by MP Suklabaidya, MLA Das and other dignitaries. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Neihat Haolai, ACS, acknowledging the efforts of all participants in making the event a grand success.
Our Nagaon Correspondent adds: To commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a grand unity march was organised on Thursday from Nehrubali Field in Nagaon. Over 5,000 participants, including students, NCC and NSS cadets, police personnel and prominent citizens, took part in the march.
The event began with a tree plantation ceremony, lamp lighting and floral tribute to the Iron Man of India. District Commissioner Debashish Sarma flagged off the march, which was also attended by Arjuna Award winner Nayanmoni Saikia.
The procession passed through key parts of the town, featuring cultural performances such as a Sattriya dance by Nowgong Girls’ College students and a Bodo dance by students of Holy Cross School. The march concluded back at Nehrubali, where stalls of self-help groups and government schemes were showcased.
Dignitaries present included Manoj Kumar Sikaria, CEO of Nagaon Zila Parishad, Geetanjali Hazarika, Chairman of Nagaon Zila Parishad, Additional District Commissioner Sudip Nath and Debahuti Bora. The event highlighted Sardar Patel’s contributions to India’s unity and integrity while promoting the Prime Minister’s vision of “Ek Bharat, Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
Our Haflong Correspondent adds: The District Commissioner’s Office, Dima Hasao, organised a Pad Yatra (Unity March) in Haflong on Thursday to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. The event was graced by Mohet Hojai, Chairman of NCHAC, as Chief Guest and Assam Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare Nandita Gorlosa as Guest of Honour.
In his welcome address, District Commissioner Munindra Nath Ngatey, ACS, paid tribute to Sardar Patel, recalling his immense contribution to national integration and unity. He emphasised how Patel’s leadership, vision and determination laid the foundation for a united India and continue to inspire citizens to work together in peace and harmony.
The programme included a tree plantation ceremony to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. Participants also took the ‘Nasha Mukt Dima Hasao’ pledge, reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free society.
The 7 km-long Pad Yatra commenced from the Veer Sambudhan Phonglo Statue and concluded at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue, followed by a closing ceremony at the Council Gate of the NCHAC Secretariat. People from all walks of life joined the march, spreading messages of unity and peace.
Students from various educational institutions, including Don Bosco High School, Government Girls’ High School, St Agnes High School, Dibarai High School, Fiangpui High School, Lodi High School, CHT Synod High School, GC Langthasa High School, Government Boys High School and Haflong Government College, actively participated and certificates were awarded in recognition of their involvement.
The event was attended by dignitaries and officials, including Executive Members NCHAC Dhriti Thaosen and Dhonpainon Thaosen, MAC John Phoithong, ADCs Shaurya Sharma and Sangeeta Devi, Chairperson Haflong Municipal Board Ripa Hojai and several others. The programme celebrated the life and legacy of Sardar Patel, honouring his tireless efforts toward national unity and strength.
