BEIJING, May 24 (Xinhua) -- China's central authorities have launched a nationwide campaign to select 100 heroic models who made significant contribution to the founding of New China as its 60th anniversary is approaching.

    The selection is focused on revolutionary patriots who sacrificed themselves for the independence of the country and people's liberty during the period from 1921 to 1949, or from the birth of the Communist Party of China (CPC) to the founding of New China.

    These revolutionary heroes serve as the most vivid models for patriotism education, said an official circular.

    In addition, the selection of another 100 people who have inspired China, with the focus on contemporary achievements, will mainly honor those who have made major contribution to the benefit of the people, the rejuvenation of the nation and the development of the country.

    They may also be clean-handed grass-root CPC cadres who serve the people wholeheartedly, or ordinary workers, farmers, teachers, students and soldiers who have made extraordinary achievements.

    People across the country are encouraged to nominate candidates and vote via mail, phone and the Internet.

    The circular urged government organizations at all levels to "by all means" ensure the participation of people at far-off towns and villages.

    The campaign was jointly launched by 11 government and CPC departments including the Publicity Department and the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee, and the Ministry of Civil Affairs.