Gangtok/Aizawl, Oct 26 (NationPress) The Governor of Mizoram, General V.K. Singh (Retd), underscored the importance of enhancing relationships between soldiers and civilians during a recent event. On Sunday, he inaugurated the 'Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0', a hill half-marathon, at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok.

While addressing the gathering, General Singh (Retd) commended the Soldierathon for its role in bridging the gap between soldiers and the community. He expressed his gratitude to the organizing team and wished the best for all participants.

An official elaborated that the Soldierathon's goal is to establish closer bonds between soldiers and the public, particularly targeting the youth, while also advocating for physical fitness. This initiative aims to enhance public recognition, especially among younger generations, of the relentless commitment of soldiers who safeguard the nation regardless of conditions, the official noted.

This event also reinforces the fundamental values of unity, discipline, and shared responsibility in the process of nation-building.

The second edition of 'Sikkim Soldierathon: Great Himalayan Connect' is also focused on promoting fitness and sports tourism in the picturesque state of Sikkim. The Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0 featured three race categories: 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km.

The Governor of Mizoram and his Sikkim counterpart, Om Prakash Mathur, jointly awarded prizes to the winners, recognizing senior citizens and children for their participation as well. The ceremony was enlivened by cultural performances that symbolized national unity, which were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Under the theme 'Great Himalayan Connect: Run the Ridge - Connect the Peaks - Unite the Spirit', the event attracted over 2,700 enthusiastic participants from more than 130 cities across 27 states, featuring a variety of cultural performances.

The marathon was organized by 'Fitistan - Ek Fit Bharat', in collaboration with the Eastern Command and Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army.

Sikkim Governor Mathur characterized the event as a motivating initiative aimed at tapping into the state’s youth potential, enhancing military-social cooperation, and fostering civil consciousness. He congratulated the organizing committee, army officers, participants, and all collaborating organizations for the success of 'Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0'.

Winners received attractive prizes, and every participant was awarded an achiever’s medal along with promotional items. Cash prizes were generously sponsored by Sikkim Raj Bhavan. The event also showcased an array of cultural performances, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.