JMI Celebrates 151st Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with Enthusiastic Participation in ‘Run for Unity’ and Pledge-taking Ceremony
The Games & Sports Department, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) organized a Pledge-taking Ceremony followed by a “Run for Unity” on 31st October, 2026 to commemorate the 151st Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Iron Man of India), on the occasion of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) – 2026.
Prof. Mazhar Asif, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, JMI read the Pledge and flagged off the ‘Run for Unity’ at 9:00 A.M in the presence of Mrs. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Neelofar Afzal, Dean, Students’ Welfare, JMI and Prof. Nafis Ahmad, Director, Games & Sports, JMI at the Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi Sports Complex, JMI inspiring the Jamia fraternity to walk the path of solidarity and national integration.
Prof. Neelofar Afzal, Dean, Students’ Welfare, JMI, Prof. Ghulam Yazdani, Dean, Faculty of Law, Prof. Nadeem Yunus, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, JMI, Prof. Shah Abul Faiz, Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts, Prof. Mohd. Asad Malik, Chief Proctor, JMI, Dr. Rihan Khan Suri, Director, Centre for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, JMI, Prof. Mohsin Ali, Head, Department of Persian, JMI, JMI, faculty members, non-teaching staff, students of JMI, community people actively participated in both programmes, demonstrating a collective spirit of patriotism and institutional togetherness.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision for India was anchored in the unshakeable belief that a nation’s true strength lies in its absolute unity and structural integrity. By seamlessly integrating over 562 Princely States, the “Iron Man of India” forged a cohesive, resilient republic that transcended regional, linguistic and communal divides. His legacy serves as a timeless reminder that internal security, collective national identity and mutual harmony are the essential foundations for nation-building.
Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor, JMI said that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel did not just map a nation; he stitched its diverse soul into a singular identity. As an institution of national importance, Jamia Millia Islamia bears the responsibility of carrying this flame forward. Let this ‘Run for Unity’ not end today at the finish line—let it be an everyday march toward inclusivity, intellectual growth, and nation-building. Our students are the architects of tomorrow’s India, and their commitment today proves that our unity remains unbreakable.”
Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, JMI conveyed a message on “Rashtriya Ekta Diwas” is a profound reminder that our diversity is our greatest strength, provided it is bound by a shared commitment to the nation. Today, as the Jamia Millia Islamia fraternity steps forward together, we reaffirm our dedication to the core values of solidarity, institutional integrity, and national security. The overwhelming participation of our teaching staff, non-teaching staff, and students reflects the harmonious spirit that defines JMI. Let us pledge to work cohesively every day, contributing to an inclusive, progressive, and resilient India.”
Prof. Nafis Ahmad, Director, Games & Sports, JMI stated that sports has an unparalleled power to unite people across all backgrounds, and today’s energy on the field perfectly mirrors the collective strength of our nation. Running together signifies that despite our diverse paths, our destination is a stronger, healthier, and unified India. True fitness is not just physical; it is the fitness of our collective resolve to stay integrated, disciplined, and dedicated to the country’s progress.”
