UNITY MARCH 2025

St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysuru, organized the UNITY MARCH 2025 on 31st October 2025 to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India and architect of national integration. The event was observed as part of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to foster patriotism, communal harmony, and a shared national responsibility among students. The theme of the programme, “Ek Bharat – Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” emphasized unity, self-reliance, and collective development for a progressive nation.

Collaboration

The event was successfully organized in collaboration with the
Central Bureau of Communication (Karnataka),
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India.

Ms. Shruthi S. T., IIS, Field Publicity Officer, Ministry of I & B, Government of India, Mysore, graced the occasion and offered support toward promoting the spirit of national unity among the student community.

Programme Schedule & Dignitaries Present

The programme began at 10:00 AM at the College Sports Ground with the gracious presence of:

Fr. Rector Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph
Campus Administrator Rev. Fr. Jnanapragasam
Principal Dr. Ravi J. D. Saldanha
Other academic heads and administrators of the college

Their participation added dignity to the event and reinforced the institutional commitment to nurturing responsible and socially engaged citizens.

Proceedings

Welcome and Opening Address
The Programme Coordinator welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of National Unity Day and the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to the unification of India.
Special Address by the Government Representative
Ms. Shruthi S. T. spoke on the importance of youth participation in nation building and appreciated the college for promoting social responsibility through meaningful initiatives.
Address by the Leadership Team
Fr. Rector Dr. Lourdu Prasad Joseph and Campus Administrator Rev. Fr. Jnanapragasam encouraged students to uphold the values of unity, discipline, and national integrity.
Principal Dr. Ravi J. D. Saldanha motivated the students to emulate the leadership qualities of Sardar Patel and contribute towards a peaceful and progressive India.
Floral Tribute & Flagging-off Ceremony
A floral tribute was offered to the portrait of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, followed by the official flagging off of the Unity March by the dignitaries.

The Unity March

The march began at 10:20 AM from the college sports ground and covered major paths across the campus and nearby surroundings. Students marched with discipline and enthusiasm, raising patriotic slogans and holding placards promoting unity, peace, equality, brotherhood, and responsible citizenship. The event was jointly coordinated by NSS, YRC, Rovers & Rangers Units and the Sports Committee.

Unity Pledge & Closing

Upon returning to the sports ground, all participants took the National Unity Pledge, reaffirming their dedication to preserving India’s unity, sovereignty, and integrity. Patriotic songs and motivating messages enrichened the close of the programme, reinforcing the purpose of the event.

Outcomes

The Unity March 2025 successfully:

Instilled national pride and civic consciousness among students
Reinforced respect for social, cultural, and regional diversity
Highlighted the legacy and leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Promoted the values of “Ek Bharat – Aatmanirbhar Bharat” through youth participation

The collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting further strengthened the educational and civic impact of the programme.

Conclusion

The Unity March 2025 at St. Philomena’s College was a resounding success, marked by the enthusiastic participation of students and the exemplary leadership of college authorities. The college remains committed to fostering value-based education and shaping socially responsible citizens who contribute meaningfully to Unity, Peace, and Nation Building.