On track: Despite rain, 3,500 join police half-marathon to combat drug abuse
Over 3,500 people on Sunday participated in the 12th Himachal Pradesh Police Half-Marathon under multiple categories, showcasing powerful community engagement and a resolve against drug abuse.
The event, themed “Say no to drugs, let’s stand together”, aimed to deliver a strong message of unity in the fight against narcotics.
The event was flagged off by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla from the historic Ridge. The Governor commended the enthusiasm of participants, especially the youth, in joining the half-marathon despite heavy rains.
He said people from all walks of life — including children, youngsters, the elderly and even differently-abled individuals — participated in the marathon, which was a commendable show of the collective spirit against drug abuse.
“The enthusiasm may take time, but we are determined to make Himachal Pradesh a drug-free state. The Together We Defeat Drugs campaign must reach every household,” the Governor said.
He lauded the Police Department for its committed efforts toward the goal, and administered an oath to the participants to stay away from all forms of intoxicants.
He called upon every section of society to actively participate in such awareness campaigns, saying that a united effort was the only way to eliminate the menace of drugs.
Ravi Das from Jammu clinched first place in the 21-km half-marathon in the male category, while Shiva Kundu from Uttar Pradesh and Avneesh Chandel from Bilaspur were the first and second runners-up, respectively.
In the female category, Rubi Kshyap from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, emerged as the winner, with Ranjana Rajput from Uttar Pradesh and Anshika Lodhi from Madhya Pradesh finishing as the first and second runners-up, respectively.
Ravi Chaudhary from Muzaffarnagar won the 10-km mini-marathon in the male category, while Sunita from Dharamsala claimed victory in the female category.
In the 3-km dream run, held across various age categories, Harsh Kumar secured first place in the 10-15 year male category, while Ritika Verma stood first in the female category.
In the 16-30 age group, Mohamad Sohil and Vipasha Verma emerged as winners.
Nagender Pal and Pratibha claimed the top spots in the 31-45 age group, while Kuldeep Sadhu and Vijeta triumphed in the 46-60 year category.
Fourteen participants, aged over 75, were honoured for their inspiring participation.
The event also featured colourful cultural performances by the 1st IRBn, Bangarh (Una). Qawwali and bhangra performances, street plays focused on drug awareness, and a high-energy zumba session were held.
Himachal Tribune