Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on November 24 strongly urged the state’s youth to reconnect with the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, underlining that many young people today lack a full appreciation of his role in forging a united India. He made the appeal while flagging off the Sardar@150 Unity March from the Circuit House in Agartala.
Saha said that the nationwide celebrations of Patel’s 150th birth anniversary are not just symbolic, but vital for reviving his ideology of national integration, civic duty, and self-reliance. He noted that schools and colleges across Tripura are hosting debates, seminars, and student-led programmes to deepen the youth’s understanding of Patel’s sacrifices in unifying India’s diverse princely states.
As part of the centenary commemoration, Saha announced that he would travel to Gujarat on November 25 to join a Padayatra in Patel’s honour. He invited all state leaders to take part and emphasised that “discussions will take place at several points along the route,” aiming to spread Patel’s message of unity and patriotism. He also issued a warning against “evil forces,” both internal and external, that, according to him, continue to pose a threat to national solidarity. The Indian Express
Beyond the march, Saha also highlighted the economic progress his administration has made, claiming that more than 20,000 jobs have already been generated in Tripura. He promised that the government will continue to expand employment opportunities in the near future, combining social stability with economic development.
Saha’s remarks came against the backdrop of a state-wide Sardar@150 initiative that is being rolled out in two phases. The first phase involves district-level unity marches from October 31 to November 25, with each district organising an 8–10 km route, youth pledges, cultural programmes, and community engagement drives. Tripuratimes+2KRCTimes+2 According to Tripura’s Youth Affairs Minister Tinku Roy, the national-level padayatra then kicks off from Gujarat, travelling 150 km from Patel’s birthplace to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. Tripuratimes+1
Saha reiterated that Patel’s vision remains especially relevant for younger generations, urging them to embody his values in their civic lives. He framed the Unity March not just as a commemoration but as a call to action—challenging youth to stand firm against divisive forces and build a stronger, more united India.
