USTM Marks Sardar@150 with Unity March in Ri-Bhoi District

 

    

9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri-Bhoi, November 10, 2025: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) successfully organised the Sardar@150 Unity March at Nongpoh today, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. The event was held in collaboration with MY Bharat and the District Administration, Ri-Bhoi, under the guidance of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

The nationwide initiative, Sardar@150 Unity March, is being conducted across India to celebrate Sardar Patel’s unparalleled contributions to the nation’s unification. The march also aligns with the ideals of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Viksit Bharat, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

Shri Alexander L. Hek, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Mayralborn Syiem, MLA, Nongpoh; Shri Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Ri-Bhoi; Prof. G. D. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, USTM, joined the unity march. They were joined by representatives from MY Bharat, officials from the District Administration, and faculty members from USTM, including Dr Nibedita Paul, Programme Coordinator, NSS Cell, USTM and Dr Sanchita Roy, Program Officer, along with a large group of students and faculty members.

. The event commenced with a floral tribute to the portrait of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, marking a respectful beginning to the Unity March.

The flagging-off ceremony marked the highlight of the morning, symbolising the spirit of unity and patriotism that the event sought to inspire. After the formal proceedings and felicitation of the dignitaries, the guests jointly waved the national flag to commence the Sardar@150 Unity March. The ceremony was led by Shri Alexander L. Hek, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Mayralborn Syiem, MLA, Nongpoh, and Shri Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Ri-Bhoi, in the presence of Smt. B. Ranee, ADC, Nongpoh, and Prof. G. D. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, USTM.

   

The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as hundreds of students holding placards and banners began marching from the Indoor Stadium, Nongpoh, echoing slogans of national unity and harmony, which saw the enthusiastic participation of over 450 students, including 200 NSS volunteers and Program Officers from USTM and 250 students from Ri-Bhoi College and Nongpoh Higher Secondary School. The march drew active participation from students, government officials, and the general public, creating an atmosphere of solidarity and pride.

The event also featured cultural performances by students of USTM and a short concluding programme at Ri-Bhoi College showcasing traditional dances of Meghalaya. USTM officials expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs for entrusting the university with organising such a meaningful event that resonates deeply with India’s vision of unity and progress