UDHAMPUR: In a vibrant show of unity, enthusiasm and national spirit, the District Administration Udhampur today organised a grand Sardar@150 Padyatra, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India.
The event witnessed massive participation from youth, government officers, educational institutions and civil society, reflecting a collective resolve to uphold the values of national integration, unity and resilience.
While briefing the media, the DC emphasised the visionary leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and his unmatched contribution in unifying the nation. She stated that such initiatives play a crucial role in spreading awareness about national icons and fostering responsibility among the youth. She further announced that similar Sardar@150 padyatras and related activities will be organised in every subdivision and tehsil of the district in the coming days to ensure maximum participation and outreach. The Deputy Commissioner urged the youth to continue engaging enthusiastically in such constructive programmes, which help build discipline, leadership and civic consciousness.
The programme began with great solemnity at Subhash Stadium Udhampur wherein Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, Saloni Rai, formally inaugurated the event by lighting the traditional lamp. She was accompanied by Deputy Director, MY Bharat Udhampur, Khushal Gupta, I/C DYSSO Udhampur, Jaswandir Singh, APA Souravdeep Singh, officers and officials from various departments and a large number of MY Bharat volunteers who had assembled from across the district to participate in the padyatra.
The gathering collectively chanted the National Anthem, creating an atmosphere of patriotism and unity. This was followed by the administration of the Atma Nirbhar Bharat pledge, reaffirming the commitment of all participants towards self-reliance and nation-building.
Students from multiple educational institutions of the district then delivered an impressive array of cultural performances, highlighting themes of unity, empowerment and India’s rich cultural heritage.
Later, DC flagged off the Padyatra, which moved through important landmarks of the town including Domail chowk, Slathia chowk, Ramnagar Chowk and Gole Market. The padyatra attracted the attention of local residents, who joined in and appreciated the efforts of the administration and MY Bharat volunteers. Participants carried banners and placards highlighting messages of unity, national integrity and drug-free living.
The padyatra culminated at Mini Stadium Udhampur, where the second phase of cultural presentations took place. Students again showcased well-coordinated performances, highlighting themes of patriotism and social responsibility. At this venue, the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge was also administered, strengthening the collective resolve of youth and citizens to fight against drug abuse and promote a healthier society.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Deputy Director, MY Bharat Udhampur, Khushal Gupta, who acknowledged the support of the district administration, participating institutions, volunteers and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the event.