Photo Source; Babushahi Bureau
Minister Manohar Lal Khattar flags off the 5 and 10 km marathons in Run for Unity even in Gurugram
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, November 1, 2024 – On the birth anniversary of Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a "Run for Unity" event was held today at Laser Valley Ground in Sector 29 to promote national unity. Despite the Diwali holiday, enthusiastic youth participated in large numbers. Union Minister of Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal was the chief guest, joined by Haryana's Industry and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh and Gurugram MLA Mukesh Sharma.
The event began at 7 am, with over 10,000 runners taking an oath of national unity and participating in 5 and 10-kilometer races, reaffirming their commitment to the nation.While addressing the runners at the marathon, Manohar Lal emphasized that the campaign launched by the Government of India in 2014 serves as a reminder of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contributions to the political integration of independent India and his pivotal role in strengthening the country's unity and integrity.
He highlighted that this day underscores the importance of unity in diversity, reflecting and appreciating the various aspects of Indian society, including its religions, languages, cultures, and traditions.
Manohar Lal said that despite the British's divisive tactics, Sardar Patel's greatest achievement was the unification of 562 princely states into the Indian Union.
He asserted that Sardar Patel's efforts in establishing a united nation imbued with the spirit of nationalism will never be forgotten.The Union Minister also mentioned that, after independence, the Indian people had concerns regarding Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.
He stated that this issue has been resolved by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Sh Amit Shah, in line with Sardar Patel's ideology, thereby re-establishing unity in the country.
The Union Minister appealed to the public to prioritize cleanliness, stating that the campaign initiated under the guidance of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi has transformed into a mass movement for the entire nation. He said that the message of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has instilled a sense of responsibility among citizens. With active participation in cleanliness efforts nationwide, Mahatma Gandhi's vision of a 'Swachh Bharat' is gradually becoming a reality.
He urged citizens to make cleanliness a part of their nature and culture, encouraging them to engage others in this campaign. During the event, the Union Minister also administered the oath of national unity to those present.
In recognition of the remarkable achievements of Harsh Makdola and Lalit Bhondsi in the Run for Unity, ADC Hitesh Kumar Meena honored both runners by presenting them with tracksuits.
On this occasion, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Chandra Bidhan, Special Officer of Community Policing and Outreach Program Pankaj Nain, DC Nishant Kumar Yadav, CP Vikas Arora, and other dignitaries were present.