Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel flagged off the 'Run for Unity' programme in Ahmedabad on Friday, which is being observed as National Unity Day across the nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also flag off the marathon in Delhi on the occasion of the 139th birth anniversary of India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
The "Run for Unity" will commence from Vijay Chowk and end at India Gate on Rajpath.
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had called on people to enthusiastically participate in the grand marathon and pay a rich tribute to the "Iron Man" of India.
A pledge-taking ceremony will also be organized at all government offices, while educational Institutions will organise various events to mark Patel's birth anniversary.
In the evening, a 'March-Past' by the Police, the central paramilitary forces and other organizations like the NCC, NSS, Scouts and Guides, Home Guards, will also be held on the streets of major cities and district towns.
