The North News
Chandigarh, March 13
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday launched the official T-shirt for the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon, a state-backed event aimed at encouraging sport and raising awareness against drug abuse. The marathon will be held on 22 March in Mahilpur (Garhshankar) in Hoshiarpur district as part of the Punjab government’s ongoing ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign.
Punjab Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri said the national-level event was intended to motivate young people to stay away from drugs and adopt a healthier lifestyle through sport.He said the initiative was part of the state government’s effort to combat substance abuse and revive the spirit of “Rangla Punjab”.
Rouri said the marathon was being dedicated to Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh ahead of his martyrdom anniversary.
He noted that Mann had taken his oath of office after paying tribute at Khatkar Kalan, the ancestral village associated with Bhagat Singh, and that the state holds an annual function there to mark the revolutionary freedom fighter’s martyrdom day.
“In the same spirit of respect, this marathon is being organised on the eve of the martyrdom anniversary and dedicated to Shaheed-e-Azam,” he said.
Rouri said Bhagat Singh had envisioned a strong and healthy nation where young people were committed to serving the country, and added that steering youth away from drugs and towards sports was now an urgent priority.
The event will include multiple race categories — 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km — and is open to children, young people, senior citizens and specially-abled participants, he said.
Winners in different categories will receive prizes.
Mr Rouri said schools, colleges and universities from across Punjab would be encouraged to take part, while several prominent personalities with national and international recognition were also expected to attend.
He said the marathon would help carry the message of a drug-free Punjab to households across the state while inspiring young people to embrace fitness and a healthier future.
