3,000 Runners Take to the Streets for Nagaland Half Marathon

Kohima: Three thousand runners swarmed the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on Monday for the state-level SPANDAN half marathon. Men and women of all ages raced across three categories to chase cash prizes. The 78 Battalion of the CRPF based in Sechu-Zubza ran the show alongside the Sports Authority of India and the Nagaland government.

This event covers more than just long-distance running. It acts as a hub for local sports including football, badminton, and volleyball. Nagaland DGP Rupin Sharma showed up as the chief guest to watch the action. He pressed the Sports Authority of India to scout the top performers for better training. He wants these athletes ready for international competition soon. He expects this marathon to become a permanent fixture for the local youth.

Commandant Deven Bhosle of the 78 Battalion CRPF framed the day as a move toward a stronger, united state. He spoke to the crowd during his welcome address. Bhosle said, "Every step taken today is a testament to the resilience, greed and true sportsmanship that defines the spirit of Nagaland." His team views the marathon as a collective stance for peace and national integration rather than just a quick race for medals.