Srinagar, October 1,2026- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said “Our India, Our Jammu and Kashmir is one and unbreakable” as more than 6,000 participants took part in the Run for Unity Marathon in Srinagar. He urged the youth to become ambassadors of peace, harmony, unity and development.
The marathon, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police under the Run for Unity initiative, drew students, athletes, police personnel, sports enthusiasts, women and senior citizens. Participants wearing event jerseys and race bibs ran along the designated route, and many carried the national flag and banners promoting unity.
A Message to the Youth
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor placed young people at the centre of his message. He asked them to act as ambassadors of peace, harmony, unity and development, and to carry the spirit of the event into their communities. His remarks reflected a theme he has raised at earlier Run for Unity events. In 2023, when he flagged off the run in Srinagar, he called on the people of Jammu and Kashmir to work with a single objective towards a developed India by 2047, according to an official statement.
Tribute to Sardar Patel
The Run for Unity is linked to Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, observed every year on October 31 to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Known as the “Iron Man of India,” Patel is credited with integrating the princely states into the Indian Union after Independence. The nationwide observance in 2025 marked his 150th birth anniversary.
In 2024, Sinha chaired a review meeting at Raj Bhawan and directed that Run for Unity events be held at all district headquarters, with citizens of all age groups taking part in the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Participation and Arrangements
The turnout of more than 6,000 participants made the Srinagar event one of the largest public sporting gatherings in the city. The marathon was open to all age groups. Competitive athletes ran the longer categories, while shorter runs were arranged for women, children, families and senior citizens. Organisers said the aim was to encourage broad public participation.
Arrangements were made for the safety of participants. Medical teams were stationed along the route, hydration points were set up at regular intervals, and traffic personnel regulated vehicular movement. Security remained in place throughout the event.
Police Outreach Through Sport
The marathon is part of a wider programme through which J&K Police engages with citizens, particularly young people. In recent years, the force has organised cycle races, cricket and football tournaments, badminton competitions and marathons across both divisions of the Union Territory.
A similar Run for Unity in Jammu in December 2025 drew more than 8,000 runners aged between eight and 80, according to PTI. A senior police officer said at that event that such initiatives aim to identify and nurture sporting talent while promoting a healthy, positive and disciplined lifestyle. Officials say shared activities of this kind also strengthen trust between the police and the public.
Prizes and Recognition
Winners in the various categories were awarded cash prizes, trophies and certificates, and all finishers received medals, T-shirts and refreshments. Participants praised the organisation of the event and the supportive atmosphere along the route. Several young runners said they were proud to take part in an event that promotes peace and presents a positive image of Kashmir.
Sport and the Road Ahead
Officials noted that the Valley’s lakes, mountains and autumn climate make it well suited to running events. They hope the marathon will grow into an annual fixture that draws athletes from other states and supports sports tourism and local businesses.
The programme ended with a pledge to uphold the unity, integrity and security of the nation, followed by the prize distribution. Officials thanked participants, volunteers, medical teams and the civil administration for their cooperation.
