SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called on the Tourism Department, Jammu Kashmir Sports Council and private institutions to provide coaching, mentoring and training support to local marathon runners to help them compete at national and international events.
Addressing the Kashmir Marathon award ceremony, Sinha said the event had created opportunities for young athletes from remote areas of Jammu Kashmir to showcase their abilities. He expressed confidence that local runners could emerge as future champions with sustained support and encouragement.
A total of 68 medals were awarded, with 34 each in the full marathon and half marathon categories. Congratulating the winners, the Lieutenant Governor said the medals reflected the runners’ dedication, perseverance and determination to achieve their goals.
He said the achievement of a marathon should not be judged solely by its winners, adding that participants who complete the race after hours of effort also deserve recognition for their determination and courage.
Sinha welcomed the introduction of a separate category for residents of Jammu Kashmir, saying the initiative would help identify and nurture local talent. He urged the concerned institutions to ensure that the medals won by local participants marked the beginning of their journey towards higher-level competitions.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the event’s growing international profile, saying the Kashmir Marathon had helped establish Srinagar as a destination for major long-distance races. Participants from other parts of India and abroad, he said, also carried back impressions of Jammu Kashmir’s hospitality and natural beauty.
Emphasising the importance of physical activity, Sinha said marathon events could encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles and raise awareness about lifestyle-related diseases. He pointed to the participation of young runners and people aged above 50 as an example that could inspire others to incorporate daily walks into their routines.
He urged young people to approach future challenges with confidence and determination and contribute to the development of India and a self-reliant Jammu Kashmir.
Sinha also commended the Jammu Kashmir Police and security forces, saying their efforts over the past six years had helped create an environment conducive to hosting international-level events in the Union Territory.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Tourism Secretary Avny Lavasa, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Inspector General of Police Kashmir Sujit Kumar, Srinagar Senior Superintendent of Police Dr GV Sundeep Chakravarthy and Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo attended the ceremony, along with senior civil and police officials, sportspersons, prominent citizens and young people.
