Gandhinagar

For a change, students of several local schools today unveiled the 30-foot high imposing statue of Sardar Patel at a function in the Swarnim Park here to mark his 140th birth anniversary in presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel and other dignitaries.

The statue made of an alloy of five metals is a replica of the 600-foot high ‘Statue of Unity’ being erected near the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP) dam on the Narmada near Kevadia Colony to commemorate the Iron Man of India.

Speaking at the largely attended function organized by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Rashtriya Ekta Trust, Mrs. Patel called upon the 6.50-crore Gujaratis to join the task of nation building with the mantra of ‘sabka sath, sabka vikas’, rising above the divisive tendencies like rich-and-poor, high-and-low. This would be the best tribute to the pre-Independence national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel.

She said it is now everybody’s duty to live up to the dreams of India’s hard won freedom due to the sacrifices of lakhs of revolutionaries and freedom fighters, now poised to become a great democracy and fine example of good governance. There is need for acquainting the new generation about India’s glorious history, notable events and patriotism of the freedom fighters. She hoped the world’s tallest, Statue of Unity, taking shape near the SSP dam would send the message of unity to the world.

The school children presented a short play and other variety entertainment programme on the occasion on the life and time of Sardar Patel. The Chief Minister felicitated the children.

Chief Secretary G.R. Aloria gave details about the statue of Sardar Patel and about the activities of the Ekta Trust. Revenue Secretary, who is Member-Secretary of the Trust, proposed a vote of thanks.

– Information