National Seminar on the Observance of Mahaparinirvana Diwas of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Celebration of the 150th Birth  Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) organized a National Seminar at the Pradhanmantri National Museum, New Delhi, to observe the Mahaparinirvana Diwas of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, coinciding with the culmination of the Sardar Patel Unity March.

The event was presided over by the Hon’ble Chairman, NCSC Sh. Kishor Makwana, and Hon’ble Members of the Commission, in the august presence of Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest.

Renowned historian and Member, Prime Minister National Museum, Prof. Rizwan Qadri, delivered the keynote address, reflecting on the historic contributions of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in shaping India’s social justice framework, promoting national unity, and strengthening constitutional governance. He emphasized their joint commitment to abolition of untouchability, social reforms, educational advancement, and empowerment of marginalized communities.

Earlier, Shri Gudey Srinivas, Secretary, NCSC, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the lifelong dedication of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel towards uplifting the Scheduled Castes, women, labourers, and socially disadvantaged groups. He recalled Dr. Ambedkar’s struggle against discrimination and his pivotal role in drafting constitutional safeguards for the weaker sections. He also underscored Sardar Patel’s leadership in unifying 562 princely states and reinforcing the foundations of “Akhand Bharat.”

Hon’ble Members of the Commission, Shri Love Kush Kumar and Shri Vaddepalli Ramchander, also addressed the gathering, recalling significant contributions of both leaders in building an egalitarian society.

The Hon’ble Chairman, NCSC, Sh. Kishor Makwana narrated important historical interactions between Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, including Patel’s efforts in defending the rights of untouchables during social unrest, which Dr. Ambedkar lauded. The Hon’ble Chairman highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s principle that the nation must always stand above any individual or organization, reinforcing the importance of national unity and interest.

In his valedictory address, Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister, praised the Commission for organizing the seminar and paid homage to both national icons. He recounted their extraordinary contributions to nation-building and emphasized that their shared vision of social justice, unity, and welfare continues to guide the country. He noted that under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, the ideals of Sardar Patel’s nation-building efforts are being carried forward with commitment.