Dholai: In a spirited celebration of unity and patriotism, the District Administration of Cachar, in association with the Dholai Co-District Administration and My Bharat Cachar, commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Dholai on Thursday.

The daylong event, supported by multiple state government departments, local organizations, NGOs, and educational institutions, turned into a grand public festival honoring India’s unity and collective strength.

The celebration began 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 residents joined the procession, carrying messages of peace, harmony, and self-reliance. The march wound through key roads of Dholai before culminating at the Conference District Auditorium, where the gathering paid floral tributes to Bharat Mata.

Addressing the audience, MP Parimal Suklabaidya, who presided as Chief Guest, paid rich tribute to the Iron Man of India and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for revitalizing Patel’s legacy through initiatives such as the Statue of Unity and nationwide Run for Unity campaigns.

“Sardar Patel’s unmatched statesmanship unified 562 princely states into one nation. His vision continues to guide India’s conscience even today,” he remarked.

He further reflected on Patel’s towering leadership and decisive role in shaping post-Independence India. “It was his foresight and determination that turned a fragmented land into a single sovereign nation.

Without his resolve, India might have remained divided and unstable,” Suklabaidya said. “The Modi government has rightfully declared his birth anniversary as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, celebrated across the nation to reinforce the spirit of unity.”

Dholai MLA Nihar Ranjan Das urged young citizens to draw inspiration from Sardar Patel’s values of discipline, nationalism, and self-reliance.

“Our youth must embody Patel’s ideals to build a nation free from division and despair. His life is a lesson in dedication and sacrifice for the motherland,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Co-District Commissioner Roktim Baruah, ACS, described Sardar Patel’s life as “a living roadmap for India’s progress.” He noted, “Unity and development are inseparable. Today’s march reflects our collective commitment to Patel’s vision of a strong and self-reliant India.” He also extended his gratitude to all departments, volunteers, and cultural groups for their contributions.

In his welcome address, Mehebub Alam Laskar, Deputy Director of My Bharat, commended the enthusiastic participation and underlined the importance of youth in shaping a united and resilient India. “Sardar Patel’s ideals remind us that our strength lies in unity. Today’s turnout is a testament to that enduring spirit,” he said.

The event featured vibrant 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 participants, encouraging them to stay away from drugs and dedicate themselves to nation-building.

Adding to the day’s highlights, Self Help Groups from across Dholai showcased handmade crafts and traditional foods at a Swadeshi Mela, promoting the spirit of “Vocal for Local.”

The programme concluded with a plantation drive under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” symbolizing a pledge toward a greener, united India. MP Parimal Suklabaidya, MLA Nihar Ranjan Das, and other dignitaries planted saplings as part of the ceremony.

The event ended with a vote of thanks delivered by Neihat Haolai, ACS, Assistant Commissioner and In-Charge Block Development Officer, Dholai-Narsingpur Development Block, who expressed gratitude to all contributors for making the celebration a memorable success.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally