DIMAPUR, OCT 28 (NPN): The 173 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), organised the Dimapur Half Marathon at the State Agri Expo, 4th Mile, Chümoukedima, on Tuesday, with around 1,700 participants taking part in the event.
Organised under the banner of “Spandan – Sports for Peace and Development Across Nations” as part of the Khelo India scheme, the event aimed to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, peace and youth development.
The marathon was open to male and female participants aged 18 years and above. The event featured a 21-km race for men and a 5-km race for women, with the State Agri Expo serving as both the starting and finishing point. The races were flagged off at 5:30 am.
In the 21-km men’s category, Nahtoi N Wangnao secured first position, followed by Arif Ali in second place and Kamal Kumar in third place. In the 5-km women’s category, Pratima Verma claimed first position, while Pooja Verma and Annu Pal secured second and third positions, respectively.
Cash prizes were awarded separately to male and female participants, with the first prize carrying Rs. 20,000, second prize Rs. 15,000 and third prize Rs. 10,000. The fourth and fifth position holders received Rs. 5,000 each, while the sixth and seventh position holders received Rs. 3,000 each. The eighth position carried Rs. 2,000, while those securing ninth and tenth positions received Rs. 1,000 each. Participants were also provided with T-shirts and refreshments.
Deputy Commissioner of Chümoukedima, Polan John, graced the occasion as the chief guest and distributed cash prizes to the top 10 finishers in the respective categories. The programme was also attended by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chümoukedima, Nikho Venuh; Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Khrusa Keyho; Commandant of 78 Battalion CRPF, Deven Bhosle; Deputy Director, State Agri Expo, Chümoukedima, Myanthung Patton; and Deputy Director, SAI Dimapur, Harender Singh.
Addressing the gathering, John commended the 173 Battalion CRPF and SAI for organising the initiative under the national banner of Spandan. He emphasised that participation in sports was one of the most constructive ways to channel the energy of young people. Highlighting the importance of physical activity amid increasing digital distractions and negative influences, he encouraged the younger generation to make fitness a daily habit and lead by example in building healthier and safer communities.
In his welcome address, Commandant of 173 Battalion CRPF, Ashok Kumar Yadav, welcomed the chief guest, guests of honour and participants. He expressed gratitude to the district administration, police authorities, SAI representatives, medical professionals, media personnel and CRPF personnel for their contributions towards ensuring the safe and successful conduct of the event.
Second-in-Command of 173 Battalion CRPF, Narayan Balai, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all stakeholders and personnel involved in organising the marathon.
