Varanasi: The 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the Iron Man of India, was observed across Varanasi and neighbouring districts on Friday with tributes, pledges of national unity and public participation.At the offices of ADG, Varanasi Zone, Naveen Arora, and DIG, Varanasi Range, Vaibhav Krishna, floral tributes were paid to Patel after garlanding his portrait and lighting a ceremonial lamp. Addressing branch in-charges and police personnel, the officers called upon them to uphold the unity, integrity and security of the nation. They also administered the National Unity Pledge.The officers emphasised dedication to duty, commitment to internal security and the need to follow Patel’s ideals, recalling his decisive contribution to the integration of India and his leadership.Similar ceremonies were held at the Kashi, Varuna and Gomti zone offices of the Varanasi Commissionerate, as well as police lines in Chandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Ballia, Azamgarh, Mau, Sonbhadra, Bhadohi and Mirzapur. CRPF 95th Battalion commandant Rajeshwar S Balapurkar led the celebrations at his office. National Unity Pledge ceremonies were also organised at the Varanasi Development Authority and other government offices.Meanwhile, Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) organised a Run for Unity under the guidance of general manager Ashutosh Pant. Principal chief electrical engineer Manish Kumar flagged off the run from BLW Inter College Crossing.Students of BLW Inter College, railway officers and employees, sportspersons, coaches, members of Bharat Scouts and Guides, Civil Defence, St John Ambulance Brigade and RPF personnel participated in the event.The run passed through Surya Sarovar and Kundan Tirjuntion before concluding at the Basketball Ground. Participants carried placards promoting national unity, integrity, social harmony, security and fitness, while patriotic slogans echoed across the campus.
