Correspondents
KOHIMA/MOKOKCHUNG, MAY 8 (NPN): As part of the nationwide celebration commemorating 90 years of broadcasting in India, Akashvani Kohima and Akashvani Mokokchung organised the “Akashvani Marathon” in Kohima and Mokokchung on Friday respectively.
KOHIMA: The marathon commenced from Old MLA Hostel Junction and concluded at High School Junction. A total of 180 students from six government schools participated in the event. The participating schools included Government High School, PWD Colony; Government High School, Chandmari; Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou; T.M. Government High School; PM SHRI Government High School, New Market; and Government High School, Forest Colony.
Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, flagged off the marathon from Old MLA Hostel Junction, describing the event as a “marathon of voices, music, news and stories” that had reached millions through broadcasting over the decades. He emphasised that the occasion marked not only a milestone in broadcasting history but also a celebration of unity fostered through shared narratives and songs. Extending his best wishes, Buchem expressed hope for many more decades of Akashvani’s innovation and dedicated public service in connecting people nationwide.
At the closing ceremony, Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose lauded Akashvani’s longstanding impact, noting how radio had connected generations and remained vital, particularly in rural areas. He congratulated Akashvani Kohima for its service and praised all marathon participants, declaring that “every participant was a winner.” Stressing the importance of fitness, Sekhose urged citizens to contribute to the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” through healthy living and active nation-building. He later distributed cash prizes, medals, and certificates to winners in both boys’ and girls’ categories.
Programme Executive Khriesaneisa Rutsa highlighted the significance of Akashvani’s 90-year milestone, tracing its history from the Indian Broadcasting Company in 1927 to its renaming as All India Radio in 1936, and its adoption of the name “Akashvani” in 2022. He noted that Akashvani Kohima completed 63 years of service in January 2026 and had organised a series of commemorative activities since June 2025, including special programmes, essay competitions and folk song contests. Rutsa also underscored the station’s outreach through popular programmes like My Beloved Village, which reached audiences across districts and remote villages. Currently, Akashvani Kohima broadcasts over 55 programmes via its Primary Channel and FM Tragopan. He concluded that the marathon was designed to honour Akashvani’s rich legacy while promoting fitness and healthy living.
In the boys’ category, Ketouselie of T.M. Government High School secured first position with a timing of 11 minutes 07 seconds, followed by Muying Phom of Government High School, PWD Colony, in second place with 11 minutes 09 seconds.
Pherongwi of Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou, finished third with a timing of 11 minutes 10 seconds.
In the girls’ category, Vibeizonuo Nienu of Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou, secured first place with a timing of 14 minutes 18 seconds.
Yanhola of Government High School, Chandmari, finished second with 14 minutes 56 seconds, while Avisi Kire of Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou, secured third place with a timing of 15 minutes 28 seconds.
Five consolation cash prizes were also awarded in each category. Staff members of Akashvani Kohima also participated in the marathon.
The event was organised in partnership with the National Health Mission under the Department of Health and Family Welfare Nagaland and Miachieo Market, Peraciezie, while the State Bank of India, Regional Business Office, Dimapur Region, sponsored the event.
MOKOKCHUNG: Akashvani Mokokchung, in collaboration with Queen Mary Higher Secondary School (QMHSS), organised a marathon race under the theme “Run for Health, Unity & Discipline.”
The event witnessed participation from 108 students, both boys and girls, who competed with energy and determination. Winners in each category received cash prizes, medals and certificates, while all participants were awarded certificates of participation.
In her address, vice principal of QMHSS, Rev. Sr. Flowerlit, in her welcomenote, emphasised that the theme highlighted the importance of discipline, unity, and physical fitness as integral parts of education beyond the classroom.
Describing the marathon as a “beautiful initiative,” she praised its role in encouraging healthy living and strengthening togetherness. She also acknowledged Akashvani’s contribution over nine decades in connecting people, spreading awareness and serving society through information and communication. Addressing the young athletes, she commended their courage and sportsmanship, noting that sincere participation itself was a significant achievement.
Delivering the words of appreciation, HOP/PEX of Akashvani Mokokchung, Habemo Ngullie, expressed gratitude to QMHSS for its collaboration and support. He lauded the Sports Committee, organisers, teachers and volunteers for their discipline, teamwork and dedication in ensuring the smooth conduct of the marathon.
Congratulating all runners, Ngullie said their energy and determination brought the event to life, reflecting patience, purpose and sportsmanship. He underlined that the marathon carried significance beyond sports, commemorating Akashvani’s nine-decade journey as a trusted voice that has informed, educated and inspired generations while promoting health, unity and discipline.
The programme was chaired by assistant teacher Anita Rai, with Headmistress of QMHSS, Rev. Sr. Elizabeth, delivering the invocation. Prize distribution was conducted by assistant teacher, Aososang, followed by benediction from assistant teacher, Benjungrenla. The event concluded with the school anthem led by School Prime Minister, Katienla.
Winners in the boys category: 1st – Nungshimaong Longkumer; 2nd – Tarenkaba; 3rd – Kichar Kichu.
Girls Category: 1st – Opanglemla Jamir; 2nd – Sentili Pamei; 3rd – Shongmou Lam.