The District-Level Padayatra, organised by My Bharat-Kohima under the Ministry of Youth Resources and Sports in coordination with the District Administration, was held at Kohima College, Kohima, on 19th November 2025, with the message of unity.
Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA, graced the programme as the Special Guest. Drawing parallels to Naga society, he emphasised that the spirit of unity demonstrated by Sardar Patel remains deeply relevant today. “If Sardar Patel could unite over 560 princely states, why can’t we unite a handful of tribes in our society?” Rhütso asked, calling on young people to rise above tribalistic tendencies and work for harmony among the Nagas.
He further encouraged students to see themselves not just as citizens of a tribe or region, but as future “international citizens” with broad and inclusive perspectives.
Rhütso also reminded the gathering of the sacrifices made by parents and elders for the education of the younger generation. With many families depending on hard work in the villages, he said students’ academic achievements serve as a “harvest” and a meaningful return for their parents’ labour. “Give your parents a very good harvest through your academic results,” he urged.
He applauded the students’ participation in marching for India’s unity and encouraged them to continue this spirit at home by marching “every day for the unity, peace, and prosperity of the Nagas.”
Addressing the students and participants, DC Kohima, B. Henok Buchem said the occasion was a meaningful moment to reflect on the purpose behind public service and community responsibility. Recalling his study of Patel’s biography, Buchem said Sardar Patel was the backbone of Mahatma Gandhi’s success.
He shared one of Patel’s well-known reflections: “One person cannot do everything, but one person can do something.” He told the gathering that the message was simple - every individual has the capacity to contribute, and unity can accomplish much more.
Offering a brief but thoughtful message to the students, Buchem emphasised three guiding principles for a meaningful life: fear of the Lord, obedience to parents, and discipline. “Keep these three in your heart and you will see wonders in your life,” he advised.
A youth speech was presented by K. Chumseli Anar, followed by a cultural performance by the Jubilant Cultural Group.
The highlight of the event was the administering of the Unity Pledge by the Special Guest, reaffirming the participants’ commitment to the unity, integrity, and security of the nation. This was followed by the official flagging off of the Unity March.
The Unity March began from the Kohima College campus and proceeded up to the Nagaland Civil Secretariat Junction, with students and participants joining in the spirited march.
(DPRO Kohima)
