The Sardar@150 National Padyatra, envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as part of the two-year nationwide celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, advanced with renewed enthusiasm on Day 9, moving from Vadodara to Narmada district in Gujarat advancing by 14.2 km. The day’s route, which takes the cumulative distance to 149 km, passed through Narkhdi, Jesalpor, Bid, Rasela, Bhadam, STP, Kalagoda Circle Rajpipla, and finally Rajpipla (Purani Cricket Academy).
The morning unfolded with a meaningful tree plantation under the Ek Ped Maa ke naam campaign at Smriti Van, symbolising collective responsibility toward environmental stewardship and aligning with Sardar Patel’s vision of sustainable nation-building. After this, as the Padyatra reached Bhadam, following this green initiative, the Padyatra received a unique cultural welcome as the Siddis, an African-origin tribe settled in Gujarat, felicitated the Yatra with an energetic traditional performance, showcasing the state’s inclusive heritage.
The Gram Sabha was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Harsh Malhotra, Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs and Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways; Shri Ishwarsinh Patel, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Water Resources and Water Supply; Shri Rushikesh Patel, Minister of Energy & Petrochemicals, Panchayat & Rural Housing, and Parliamentary Affairs; Smt. Rivaba Jadeja, Minister of State for Primary, Secondary and Adult Education; and Shri Rameshbhai Katara, Minister of State for Agriculture, Cooperation, Animal Husbandry and Cow Breeding. The dignitaries also paid Pratima Samman to Sardar Patel at Bhadam, offering their tribute to the Iron Man of India.