New Delhi, Dec 14 (NationPress) The fifth edition of the Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2025 was held successfully on Sunday at the headquarters of the Directorate General Assam Rifles located in Laitkor, the capital of Meghalaya, Shillong.

This annual event, which began in 2021, has become a pivotal initiative in promoting the Fit India Movement. It has gained immense popularity among running aficionados nationwide.

This year’s marathon saw participation from all over India, with over 3,000 runners from 26 states and two Union Territories, showcasing the essence of unity in diversity and fostering national unity.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the East Khasi District hills in Laitkor, the event was attended by dignitaries from the Union government, members of the Armed Forces, and volunteers from across the country.

The half marathon featured three categories: Cloud Chase (21 km), Pine Path (10 km), and Crystal Stream (5 km).

The runs were officially started by Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, Director General of Assam Rifles, along with Vibha Lakhera, President of the Assam Rifles Wives Welfare Association (ARWWA), for the 21 km segment. Major General Jai Singh Bainsla, ADG Assam Rifles; Satish Nambiar, Executive Director and State Head for the Northeast region; and Zubin Garg, Chief General Manager (Corporate Communication) of Indian Oil Corporation Limited in Mumbai, flagged off the 10 km segment, while Brigadier Sachindra Tiwari, Brigadier Administration at Headquarters DGAR, initiated the 5 km segment.

The total participation reached 3,038 runners, comprising 559 in the 21 km half marathon, 1,502 in the 10 km run, and 977 in the 5 km event.

All participants received medals and certificates to acknowledge their efforts, along with commemorative T-shirts as mementos.

Prizes totaling Rs 20 lakh were awarded to 48 runners across various categories, along with several consolation prizes.

In the Overall Category, Sandeep Devrari of 20 Kumaon, Indian Army, clinched the victory in the 21 km (Men) category with a time of one hour seven minutes, while Tamsi Singh from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, emerged victorious in the 21 km (Women) category with a time of one hour 23 minutes.

The event was honored by the presence of Air Marshal Surat Singh, AOC-in-C of Eastern Air Command, and Nisha Singh, President of Eastern Air Command, AFFWA, as the Chief Guests.