Bhubaneswar, Oct 28: Under the 'Meri Mati Mera Desh' initiative, holy soil has been gathered from the birthplaces of heroes both pre and post-independence in approximately 13,250 villages throughout Odisha. This sacred earth was dispatched to New Delhi via a specially designated train today. The primary purpose of this endeavor is to use the holy soil for the creation of an Amruta Vatika at the 'Kartabya Path' in commemoration of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary, which falls on October 31.
A group of dedicated volunteers embarked on their journey to Delhi with the precious soil, embarking on a special train termed the 'Amrit Kalash Yatra' from the Bhubaneswar Railway Station. The Amrit Kalash Yatra forms an integral part of the overarching 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign.
Union Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, graced this significant occasion. Minister Pradhan shared his thoughts on the occasion, emphasizing the historic endeavor
"Holy soil was collected from the birthplaces of freedom fighters, as well as the brave soldiers and paramilitary forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation in 13,250 villages across the State. This sacred soil has now been dispatched to Delhi via a special train and will be presented to the Prime Minister during the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Jayanti on October 31. It will find its purpose in the creation of the Amruta Vatika," said Pradhan.
Preceding this momentous journey, vessels containing this consecrated earth were gathered at Deen Dayal Park, situated near the Ram Mandir. These vessels were then carried in a grand procession, adorned with the Tricolour, from the Ram Mandir to the Railway Station at Master Canteen. At the railway station, a special 'Mo Maati Mo Desh' program was organized, and it was here that the Union Minister ceremoniously flagged off the train.
Minister Pradhan further highlighted the magnitude of this initiative, noting, "Holy soil from 7,500 blocks spanning across the entire nation will be brought to Delhi for the installation of the Amruta Vatika." He expressed that the act of collecting this sacred earth served to foster national integration, patriotism, and a sense of fraternity among the citizens of the nation.
