JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said the Jammu Marathon symbolises the profound transformation that Jammu and Kashmir has undergone since 2019, highlighting its emergence as a destination for global sporting events.
Speaking at the felicitation ceremony of the Jammu Marathon at M A Stadium, Sinha said peace, prosperity and improved conditions have enabled the Union Territory to host world-class events. “Its dream realised at last, as after seven decades, J&K claims its rightful place on the global stage,” he said.
The first-ever international half marathon in Jammu, organised by the Tourism Department, featured 21 km, 10 km and 5 km race categories and saw participation from over 3,000 runners from across India and abroad.
Describing the event as a historic milestone, the Lieutenant Governor said Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running map. He added that the success of the marathon is expected to boost tourism and benefit trade and businesses in the region.
“I see the marathon as one event where runners don’t worry about trophies, rankings or medals—they think about the next step. Jammu and Kashmir itself embodies this principle. Since 2019, we have advanced one step at a time, crafting a new identity for this Union Territory,” he said.
Sinha said the idea of hosting such events was envisioned during a 2023 meeting, with the aim of showcasing a “new Jammu and Kashmir” on the global sporting stage. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Territory is now highlighting its tourism potential worldwide, he added.
He further said long-awaited aspirations are being realised, and the marathon has allowed participants to witness the ongoing transformation in the region. “Fuelled by citizens’ resolve, Jammu and Kashmir is setting new benchmarks in development. In line with the Fit India Movement, we are also igniting a new sporting revolution,” he said.
Among those present at the event were Sports Minister Satish Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism) Ashish Chandra Verma, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and IGP Bhim Sen Tuti, along with senior civil and police officials.
Film personalities Milind Soman and Gul Panag, sportspersons, and a large number of youth also attended the felicitation ceremony.
