53K Gujarat Anganwadi Sisters Send 3.5 L Rakhis to Soldiers

Gandhinagar | Gujarat —- In a moving display of patriotism and sisterhood, over 53,000 Anganwadi sisters across Gujarat handcrafted and sent more than 3.5 lakh Rakhis to the soldiers guarding India’s borders under the Gujarat Government’s initiative, ‘Ek Rakhi, Desh Ke Jawano Ke Naam’. The heartfelt effort was recognized by the India Book of Records, marking a historic achievement for the state.

The symbolic ‘Raksha Sutra Kalash’ was ceremoniously handed over to representatives of the Army, BSF, CRPF, and NDRF in Gandhinagar in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Women and Child Welfare Minister Bhanuben Babaria. The event, steeped in emotion and patriotism, honored the bond of Raksha Bandhan while saluting the brave hearts of India.

“This initiative reflects the strength of Gujarat’s women and their spirit of gratitude toward our soldiers,” said Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, receiving the India Book of Records certificate on behalf of the people of Gujarat. “This Rakhi is more than a thread; it is a promise of love, strength, and unwavering support.”

The initiative, conceptualized under the leadership of Minister Bhanuben Babaria, aimed to connect the emotion of Raksha Bandhan with national service. Many of the jawans who received the Rakhis are stationed far from home and families, and this gesture brought warmth and solidarity to their otherwise lonely festival.

“Our Anganwadi sisters have turned Raksha Bandhan into a celebration of patriotism,” said Minister Babaria. “These Rakhis are a shield of love for our jawans, who risk their lives to protect us every day. Inspired by Operation Sindoor, this effort celebrates not only tradition but also sacrifice.”

The Rakhis were lovingly crafted in Anganwadis across the state and sent as part of a coordinated statewide movement that engaged thousands of women and children. This massive participation made it one of the largest civil-led Rakhi campaigns in the country.

Representatives from the India Book of Records formally presented a certificate and medal to the Chief Minister, applauding Gujarat for setting a new national example of community-driven patriotism.

The event also saw the attendance of Dr. Vikrant Pandey, Secretary to the CM;  Rakesh Shankar, Secretary of Women and Child Development; Dr. Ranjit Kumar Singh, Commissioner of the department; and a host of Anganwadi workers, government officials, and security personnel.