Srinagar: J&K Police host 'Run for Unity' Kashmir Marathon-2026
J&K Police organized the 'Run for Unity' Kashmir Marathon-2026 in Srinagar to promote fitness and combat substance abuse.
In a vibrant display of community spirit and physical fitness, the Jammu and Kashmir Police organized the 'Run for Unity' Kashmir Marathon-2026 in Srinagar. The event aimed to foster a sense of togetherness and promote a healthy lifestyle among the citizens of the valley.
A Diverse Gathering for a Common Cause
The marathon saw an impressive turnout, bringing together a diverse group of participants including schoolchildren, women, girls, and differently-abled individuals. Sports enthusiasts from various backgrounds joined the movement, creating a powerful atmosphere of unity.
Flagging off the event, ADG J&K Police Nitish Kumar (IPS) expressed his delight at the massive participation. He noted that the turnout was particularly remarkable considering the event took place on a working day. "The 'Run for Unity' marathon organised today by the Jammu & Kashmir Police saw a turnout that exceeded our expectations, especially considering it is a working day. Many runners and sports enthusiasts have travelled from outside Jammu & Kashmir to participate," Kumar stated.
Fighting Substance Abuse Through Sports
Beyond the physical benefits, the marathon served a deeper social purpose. Nitish Kumar emphasized that engaging the youth in sports is a critical strategy in the ongoing battle against drug addiction in the region.
Key objectives of the marathon included:
- Promoting physical fitness and wellness.
- Fostering community participation and unity.
- Engaging youth to steer them away from substance abuse.
The ADG highlighted that the enthusiastic involvement of the youth is a positive sign that the community is successfully defeating the drug menace in Kashmir. "We see people from all walks of life—young children, differently-abled individuals, women, and girls—taking part, which is truly heartening," he added.
Odisha Celebrates Fitness with Statewide Promo Run
While Srinagar focused on unity, Odisha also marked World Tourism Day with a massive fitness movement. The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, organized a synchronized statewide Promo Run to build momentum for the upcoming OMC Puri Coastal Marathon 2026.
The initiative saw over 10,000 runners participating simultaneously across 32 different locations, including various districts and Municipal Corporations. This unprecedented statewide movement marks the beginning of the preparations for the major running event scheduled to take place in Puri this December.