Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday flagged off "Jal Mitti Rath Yatra" from India Gate. The yatra is the launchpad for a jumbo Yagya which will be held in March termed as Rashtra Raksha Mahayagya. Rajnath Singh made it clear that the rath yatra has no political overtone and it is a true effort in the process of nation-building.

Singh said that India aims to be a well-off and strong nation not for its own citizens or to create fear or dominate other countries but to promote universal brotherhood and friendship. Further, the union minister stressed that the perseverance of unity of India is important not only for India but for the benefit of the world at large.

The 7 day long exclusive Yagya will be witnessed all political dignitaries including President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and most senior BJP leaders and Union ministers. The event, which will keep on for seven days from March 18 to 25, will be held near the Red Fort in Delhi.

One hundred and eight hawan kunds will be prepared in which  2,100 priests and 51,000 attendees will perform the mahayagya Pooja. Yagya will harp on the eight pledges to honor women, protect the Constitution, environment, public property, ensure cleanliness, exercise right to vote, rid the nation of corruption and eradicate casteism and communalism.