On Sunday, December 14, the Assam Rifles successfully hosted the 5th Edition of the Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2025 at the Directorate General Assam Rifles (DGAR) headquarters in Laitkor, Shillong. This event is part of the Government of India’s “Fit India Movement” and has seen significant growth since its establishment in 2021.
The marathon attracted 3,038 runners from 26 states and two Union Territories, highlighting a strong spirit of national integration and unity in diversity. Competitors of all ages traversed the scenic backdrop of the East Khasi Hills.
The half marathon included three categories: Cloud Chase (21 km), Pine Path (10 km), and Crystal Stream (5 km). The 21 km race was inaugurated by Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, the Director General of Assam Rifles, alongside Mrs. Vibha Lakhera, President of ARWWA. Senior officers and representatives from the armed forces and sponsoring organizations launched the 10 km and 5 km events.
Among the participants, 559 runners tackled the 21 km route, while 1,502 joined the 10 km run, and 977 opted for the 5 km event. All runners received medals, certificates, and commemorative T-shirts, with cash prizes totaling ₹20 lakh awarded to 48 winners across different categories, alongside several consolation prizes.
In the men’s overall 21 km category, Sandeep Devrari of the 20 Kumaon from the Indian Army claimed victory with a time of 1 hour and 7 minutes. Meanwhile, Tamsi Singh from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, secured the women’s title with a time of 1 hour and 23 minutes.
The event was honored by the presence of Air Marshal Surat Singh, along with Mrs. Nisha Singh, President of AFFWA (Eastern Air Command), who attended as chief guests. The Air Marshal praised the participants’ enthusiasm and sportsmanship while distributing prizes to the winners of the 21 km and 10 km races.
Lt Gen Lakhera emphasized the Assam Rifles’ dedication to peace, development, and community engagement in the North East, noting that the half marathon serves to promote wellness, fitness, and collective unity, with participation more than doubling compared to last year.
The Assam Rifles, affectionately referred to as the “Sentinels of the North East,” expressed their gratitude to the Government of Meghalaya and the sponsors including Indian Oil Corporation Limited, State Bank of India, YES Bank, IDFC First Bank, and Tata Advanced Systems, along with event organizer ISL, for their support in ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/video/assam-rifles-hosts-fifth-edition-of-half-marathon-2025-in-shillong-draws-over-3000-runners-1317226-2025-12-14?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-12-14 15:41:00
