Dimapur, along with Chumoukedima and Niuland districts, observed International Youth Day on August 12, by organizing a district-level Youth Fest Marathon under the theme “Red Run”, which was part of the District Integrated Strategy for HIV and AIDS (DISHA). The event witnessed participants competing in 5 km course from Patkai Bridge Junction to Seithekema.
The marathon was flagged off by District Sports Officer, Dimapur, Tepulezonu Tetso, marking the participation of 160 students from various colleges across the three districts.
In his address, DIS Orenthung Ngullie, highlighted the significance of the event in raising awareness about HIV and AIDS among the youth. He emphasized the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle and physical activity to reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases, including HIV and AIDS.
EAC Seithekema, Kevethito Rose, also spoke at the event, acknowledging the efforts of the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) in organizing the marathon. He encouraged students to become ambassadors for HIV and AIDS awareness in their respective colleges.
As part of the pre-Independence Day celebrations, and under the Central Government’s “Har Ghar Tiranga” initiative, the administration also distributed Indian flags to the participants, urging them to display the flags proudly.
The marathon winners in each district were awarded certificates and cash prizes of Rs. 5,000 for first place, Rs. 3,000 for second place, and Rs. 2,000 for third place in both male and female categories.
The winners from Dimapur in Male Category were 1st: Nahlei Konyak, Immanuel College, 2nd: Nagalong T. Tikhir, Public College and 3rd: Kansham George, Salesian College. In Female Category, 1st: Songmo Khiamniungan, Immanuel College, 2nd: Lito V. Sumi, Pranab College and 3rd: Lenthula Yim, Unity College.
Winners from Chumoukedima in Male Category were 1st: Vipito B. Chophy, Patkai Christian College, 2nd: Tomong T. Yimchunger, NEISSR and 3rd: Jochuhi Kent, Patkai Christian College. In Female Category, 1st: Neikethonuo Mepfhuo, Patkai Christian College, 2nd: Mayine Lohru, Patkai Christian College and 3rd: Avishe, Patkai Christian College.
Winners from Niuland in Male Category were 1st: Vikalu T. Jamir, Platinum College, 2nd: Nikito S. Achumi, Platinum College and 3rd: Atito Sumi, Platinum College. In female category, 1st: Heli K. Shohe, Platinum College, 2nd: Disipila Sangtam, C-Edge College and 3rd: Keneinguno, C-Edge College.