Srinagar, October 31, 2026- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the ‘Run for Unity’ at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, as part of the celebrations marking Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, youth, government officials and people from different sections of society. The initiative aimed to spread the message of national unity, integrity and harmony while encouraging citizens to rise above regional, linguistic and cultural differences.
Before flagging off the run, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge, reaffirming the collective commitment to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation.
The Run for Unity was organised to honour the extraordinary contribution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India. Patel played a historic role in integrating hundreds of princely states into the Indian Union following Independence, laying the foundation for a united and strong nation.
Addressing the broader significance of the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor’s participation highlighted the importance of public involvement in strengthening national integration and promoting the values of mutual respect, brotherhood and collective responsibility.
Rashtriya Ekta Diwas is observed across the country every year on October 31 to recognise Patel’s contribution to national unity. The occasion also serves as a reminder that India’s strength lies in its diversity and the shared commitment of its people towards peace, progress and development.
The event at SKICC was particularly significant for the participation of young people. Students and youth were encouraged to understand the importance of unity, discipline, social responsibility and their role in nation-building. The run also promoted physical fitness, healthy living and community participation.
Ahead of the celebrations, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed preparations for National Unity Day programmes across Jammu and Kashmir. During a high-level meeting held on October 29, he directed district administrations and police authorities to ensure proper arrangements for unity runs, ceremonial parades and the administration of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge.
He also emphasised the need for maximum participation of schoolchildren, youth, security personnel and citizens from different sections of society. Special programmes were planned at district headquarters, police stations and prisons across the Union Territory to ensure that the message of national integration reached every section of society.
Several government departments and educational institutions were involved in coordinating the celebrations. These included the University of Kashmir, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), National Institute of Technology Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, School Education Department and Youth Services and Sports Department.
The administration also reviewed arrangements related to transportation, traffic management, parking, healthcare, refreshments and other essential services to ensure the smooth conduct of the programmes. The Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages was assigned the responsibility of organising cultural activities as part of the celebrations.
The observance also coincided with the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Foundation Day, adding significance to the celebrations across the region. Government institutions and educational establishments were encouraged to participate in activities highlighting the region’s role in India’s unity and progress.
The Lieutenant Governor has repeatedly highlighted the importance of engaging young people in constructive activities and providing them with opportunities to contribute to society. Initiatives involving sports, cultural programmes and public participation have been encouraged to strengthen community connections and promote a positive environment.
The Run for Unity carried a message beyond physical participation, reminding citizens that national integration is a shared responsibility. Events of this nature bring people from different backgrounds together and provide a platform to celebrate the country’s collective identity.
As Jammu and Kashmir joined the rest of the country in observing Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, the programme at SKICC reinforced the enduring legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the importance of preserving national unity, peace and harmony.
The celebrations served as a reminder that a strong and progressive India can be built through collective efforts, mutual respect and active participation of its citizens.
