To celebrate the nation's pride, strengthen people's engagement, foster a sense of unity among the youth, and pave the way for a developed India, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, through the My Bharat platform, has organized a nationwide march. This Yatra is designed as an inclusive event uniting everyone, from the youth to ex-servicemen, in an initiative to build the nation through public participation.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry had announced the launch of a Unity March led by My Bharat on October 6, to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the 'Iron Man of India'. This nationwide initiative aims to inspire unity, patriotism, and a sense of civic responsibility among the country's youth. Through this campaign, young people are encouraged to adopt the principles of ‘Ek Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in their daily lives.
The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, launched the campaign on the My Bharat portal on October 6, 2025. The campaign includes competitions such as a Social Media Reels contest, an essay competition, and the Sardar@150 Young Leaders program. The 150 winners of these competitions will get an opportunity to participate in the National Padyatra.
Dr. Samuel Chellaiah, Regional Head of the National Service Scheme, stated that the Unity March would be conducted across the country in two phases. District-level foot marches will take place from October 31 to November 25 in all districts within every Parliamentary constituency. He added that ahead of these marches, essay and debate competitions, seminars on Sardar Patel's life, and street plays have been organized in schools and colleges to create awareness and enthusiasm among the public.
Mr. Senthilkumar, State Director of My Bharat, informed that a National March would be held from November 26 to December 6. He stated that the march would cover a distance of 152 kilometers from Karamsad, Sardar Patel's birthplace in Gujarat, to the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. He further mentioned that community development activities would be undertaken in all villages along the route prior to the march, with the participation of NSS students, NCC cadets, My Bharat volunteers, and young leaders. He also stated that an exhibition showcasing the nation's diverse culture and Sardar Patel's life would be organized.
The top 10 winners of the nationwide competitions will have the opportunity to interact directly with the Prime Minister at an event to be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on National Youth Day, the birthday of Swami Vivekananda.