Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Ekta Padayatra at Nilgiri in Balasore district, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India.
Hundreds of students, youth, and government officials participated in the padyatra, carrying a 100-foot tricolor flag, as they covered a distance of approximately 9 kilometers from Nilgiri to Mitrapur. The event is part of the Ekta Year celebrations, aimed at promoting unity and integrity across the state and country.
Before the padyatra, Chief Minister Majhi offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Nilgiri and inaugurated a photo exhibition at the Police Parade Ground, highlighting the role of Balasore district in the freedom struggle and the life of Sardar Patel.
Addressing a public meeting, the Chief Minister said the Ekta Padayatra is not just an ordinary procession, but a symbol of Indian unity and a reminder of the responsibility of every citizen to keep the country united.
On this occasion, Chief Minister said, “The land we stand on today, Nilgiri, is not just a geographical location, but a symbol of people’s power and democracy. The Nilgiri Praja Movement is a chapter in freedom struggle, a testament to the unity of the people against exploitation, injustice, and for their rights.”
He added that the movement brought together the local youth, farmers, labourers, and educated in a united front against British rule, showcasing the power of unity and collective action.
The Chief Minister said that the outcome of the Nilgiri Praja Movement was not just a victory for the people, but a triumph of their self-respect, dignity, and democratic spirit. He added that the movement proved that when people come together, no oppressive force can suppress them.
He stated that the padyatra is a reminder of the message of “unity in diversity” and that despite differences in caste, religion, and language, everyone is Indian. He emphasized that this unity is the country’s strength and identity.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is committed to the welfare of the youth, providing opportunities for education, sports, and creativity. He emphasized that the youth are a vital part of the country’s development, as emphasized by Prime Minister Modi.
He urged everyone to come together to build a strong and prosperous Odisha and India, saying, “Let us all unite and work towards building a strong and prosperous Odisha and India.”
Higher Education Minister Suryabansi Suraj said the current era is one of education and knowledge, and the youth must come forward to contribute in nation building. He added that the Ekta Padayatra is a call to the youth to step up and play their part.
The event was attended by Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, ruling party deputy chief whip Gobinda Chandra Das, Simulia MLA Padma Lochan Panda, Balasore MLA Manas Kumar Dutta, and State Women’s Commission Chairperson Shovana Mohanty.
Nilgiri MLA Santosh Kumar Khatua welcomed the gathering, and District Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas, thanked everyone.
