Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the Kashmir Marathon 2026 today, held under the “Run for Unity” initiative of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Students, athletes, police personnel, sports enthusiasts and senior citizens took part in the event, which carried a message of national integration, harmony and healthy living.
Senior officers of the police and civil administration were present at the flag-off. The Lieutenant Governor also administered the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas pledge, in which participants resolved to preserve the unity, integrity and security of the nation. Runners in event jerseys and race bibs then moved along the designated route in an orderly manner, many carrying the national flag and banners of peace.
Homage to Sardar Patel
The Run for Unity is associated with 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.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha has led the Valley’s observance in earlier years. In 2023, he flagged off the Run for Unity in Srinagar and urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to work with a single objective towards a developed India by 2047, according to an official statement. In 2024, he 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.
Open to All Age Groups
The marathon was designed for wide public participation. Competitive athletes ran the longer categories, while shorter runs were arranged for women, children, families and senior citizens. Organisers said the objective was to make the event inclusive rather than limit it to trained runners.
Elaborate 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 cover remained in place throughout.
Police Outreach Through Sport
The marathon is part of a broader programme through which J&K Police engages with citizens, particularly the youth. 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, PTI reported. 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 add that shared activities of this kind strengthen trust between the police and the public.
Prizes and Participation
Winners in the various categories received cash prizes, trophies and certificates. All finishers were presented with medals, T-shirts and refreshments. Participants commended the organisation of the event and the supportive atmosphere along the route. Several young runners said they were proud to be part of an event that promotes peace and showcases Kashmir in a positive light.
Sports and Tourism
Officials noted that the Valley’s lakes, mountains and autumn climate make it well suited to hosting running events. The Lieutenant Governor has earlier described the Kashmir Marathon as a platform that fosters unity and brotherhood and supports tourism and the local economy. Organisers hope the event will become an annual fixture on India’s running calendar and attract athletes from other states.
The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes. Officials thanked participants, volunteers, medical teams and the civil administration for their cooperation.
