Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment,  participated in a 6 km long Padyatra (foot march) organised by MY Bharat volunteers to commemorate the 75th Constitution Day in New Delhi today. The Padyatra, themed “Humara Samvidhan Humara Swabhiman”, began at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, passed through Kartavya Path and India Gate. The padayatra witnessed the participation of over 10,000 MY Bharat youth volunteers, along with prominent youth icons, Union Ministers and Member of Parliaments.

The event commenced with the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, during which Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside his parliamentary colleagues, planted a tree.  Union Ministers such as Shri Piyush Goyal, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Ms. Raksha Nikhil Khadse along with other MPs participated in the Padyatra. Prominent youth icons and Olympics medalist such as Yogeshwar Dutt, Mirabai Chanu, Ravi Dahiya, Yogesh Kathunia also participated in the Padyatra.

Speaking to the media during the Padyatra, Dr. Mandaviya expressed his delight at the participation of over 10,000 'MY Bharat' youth volunteers. He also highlighted that the youth of the country had not only read the Preamble of the Constitution but had also reaffirmed their commitment to it. He emphasised that the youth of New India are progressing towards building a 'Viksit Bharat'.

At the starting point, a comprehensive exhibition showcased the journey of the Indian Constitution and highlighted the contributions of key figures. Youth dressed in period costumes brought history to life by portraying leaders such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, providing an immersive experience. Along the route, the Padyatra featured vibrant cultural exhibitions at various locations. Participants enjoyed mesmerising cultural performances, including traditional Gujarati dances, Rajasthani folk dances, and energetic Punjabi Bhangra.

The Padyatra, aimed at promoting constitutional values among youth, featured a special ceremony at India Gate where youth collectively read the Preamble. This activity highlighted the Preamble’s role as the foundation of India’s Constitution and its core values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. With Union Ministers and MPs present, the event underscored the significance of these principles in Indian democracy. The location of India Gate, a symbol of national unity, further amplified the ceremony’s impact. Following the Preamble reading, Dr. Mandaviya paid floral tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose alongside his parliamentary colleagues.

Youth engagement was central part of the event, with MY Bharat registration drives held throughout the program. Participants could capture the day with Preamble themed selfie points. Along the route, MY Bharat volunteers contributed significantly by setting up refreshment stalls for participants and actively participating in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, ensuring cleanliness throughout the route of the Padayatra.

The Padyatra successfully engaged youth participants from over 125 colleges in NCR Region and various organisations including NYKS, NSS, NCC, and Bharat Scouts & Guides. It served as a significant milestone in the celebration of the Constitution’s 75th year. The event emphasised the role of youth in preserving and promoting constitutional values for Viksit Bharat.

To watch the ‘Humara Samvidhan Humara Swabhiman’ Padyatra:

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Himanshu Pathak