78 Battalion CRPF and SAI host the 10 Km Zubza Mini Marathon in Kohima to promote peace and unity.
DIMAPUR — The 78 Battalion Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India, conducted the 10 Km Zubza Mini Marathon under the national framework of the SPANDAN Khelo India Scheme in Kohima on Saturday.
The event, themed "Sports for peace and development", commenced at 6:30 am from the 78 Battalion CRPF Headquarters main gate in Sechu-Zubza, Kohima.
According to a DIPR report, the marathon drew about 200 young athletes and citizens from across Kohima and other districts of the state to promote fitness and voice a strong stance against drug abuse.
The event was officially flagged off by Commissioner of Nagaland Gregory Thejawelie, alongside Additional Deputy Commissioner of Kohima Kevileto Nisa, Colonel Joseph of 17 Assam Rifles, senior leadership of the CRPF, and local village council elders.
To ensure fairness and professional standards, the 10 km highway circuit was regulated by CRPF and state police route marshals. Runners were verified via a midway wrist-token system at the 5 km U-turn marker, backed by medical booths and hydration stations positioned at every 2.5 km interval.
The mini marathon concluded with a prize distribution ceremony at the Battalion Parade Ground.
Top finishers were awarded cash prizes of INR 10,000 with a gold medal for first place to Shiangjiu T Khiamniungan, INR 6,000 with a silver medal for second place to Lhiti Lasuh, and INR 4,000 with a bronze medal for third place to Takasanen Longkumer, along with merit certificates.
A special cash prize and participation certificate were awarded to Suhluvolu Shijo for finishing first among the women. Furthermore, registered participants who crossed the finish line were presented with commemorative event t-shirts and kits.
Speaking at the close of the event, the commandant of the 78 Battalion CRPF extended gratitude to local youth clubs, the administration, and medical teams for their support.
He highlighted that this mini marathon serves as the opening for a week-long sports celebration, paving the way for the upcoming SPANDAN Women's Volleyball Tournament scheduled to run from September 7 to the 10th in Dimapur.
Additionally, the commandant announced a state-level marathon to be conducted next month with 60 cash prizes. The event will feature a first prize of INR 30,000, a second prize of INR 20,000, and a third prize of INR 15,000 in age categories of 18 to 30 years, 30 to under 45 years, and 45 years and above for both men and women.