In celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Zunheboto District Administration, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, organized a grand Padyatra (Unity March) on October 31, 2025, at Amphiboto AOC Junction. The event was held under the theme “Sardar@150 Ek Bharat, Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The programme was chaired by, Nodal Officer & EAC (HQ), Tsoinchu Sangtam with Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto, Dharam Raj (IAS) as the Special Guest. The function began with the gathering of Padyatra participants at 6:30 AM, followed by an invocation by Hotoli Y. Chishi, OS I/C, and a warm welcome address by Zakato L. Zhimo, PO MYB, Zunheboto.
A special presentation was given by Aloino Achumi before the address by the Special Guest.
In his speech, the Deputy Commissioner extended heartfelt greetings and appreciation to all participants, describing the event as a “celebration of unity, diversity, and patriotism.” He encouraged everyone to walk together in the spirit of brotherhood and ensure that “the tricolour always rise high with pride and honour.
Following the inauguration, the Unity March, led by the Special Guest, began from Amphiboto AOC Junction at 7:00 a.m., covering several stops en route to the Multi-Purpose Hall for the valedictory programme.
The march includes performances at various locations: Stop 1 (South Point AOC Junction): The Goodness of Grace by GHS South Point; Stop 2 (KL Chishi Junction): Special Song by Zunheboto Town council; Stop 3 (Daily Bazaar Point): MY Bharat Eco-Club Dance; Stop 4 (Kawoto Complex Junction): Hum Sab Bharatiya Hain by NSS, NCC & Students of ZGC; Mix Cultural Song by GHSS; and Poetry/Leshe by GHS Showhise Memorial.
The valedictory programme was chaired by Extra Assistant Commissioner, Chinglem Konyak Zunheboto. The event featured a special song by Nikovino Rotokha and performances by students from Cornerstone Higher Secondary School, Woodland Higher Secondary School, and Olympic Higher Secondary School.
Participants from different schools, youth clubs, and local organizations enthusiastically joined the Padyatra, waving flags and singing patriotic songs.
In his concluding address, the DC urged everyone to walk together to celebrate this milestone with true reflection of unity in diversity. He encouraged citizens to ensure that the tricolour always rise high, symbolizing pride, sacrifice, and national spirit.
Describing the event as a festival of unity, the DC highlighted the importance of enjoying one another’s company, recognizing the contributions of all participants, and remembering the sacrifices of freedom fighters who paved the way for India’s independence. He noted that such celebrations rekindle the spirit of patriotism and strengthen the bond of unity among people from all walks of life.
In his closing remarks, the DC emphasized that the beauty of our nation lies in its diversity like the colours of a rainbow, each unique yet part of one whole. Quoting Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, he reminded the gathering that true strength comes from standing together, regardless of being “high or low, rich or poor”.
He further said that the administration is only the face but the real spirit comes from the people. He urged the gathering to make the celebration more colourful and memorable, with the identity of India always first.
Encouraging the youth, the DC stated that being modern does not mean forgetting traditions. As we grow, let us carry forward the spirit of unity and diversity the essence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world as one family. He also expressed gratitude to all participants and performers who made the occasion vibrant and meaningful.
(Sepikiu Sangtam, IA Zunheboto)
