Advisor Ayemi flags off ‘Run for a drug-free Nagaland’ marathon

DIMAPUR — As part of the Seva Pakhwada campaign, Advisor of Tribal Affairs and Election, Tovihoto Ayemi, flagged off a marathon on the theme ‘Run for a drug-free Nagaland’ from the Dimapur Government College playground on Saturday.

The event was organised by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Nagaland.

Over 3,500 participants, aged 8 to 81, took part in the marathon, which covered City Tower and Khermahal before culminating at DDSC Stadium.

Wede T Mero emerged as the winner, while Taliyanger Ozukum and by Rinky Das secured second and third positions, respectively.

Special recognition was also given to the youngest boy and girl participants, as well as the oldest male and female participants, who were awarded certificates and medals.

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Addressing the event as the special guest, Tovihoto Ayemi described the day as truly historic, with around 4,500 registered participants and over 3,500 actively taking part in the marathon.

He termed the marathon as a noble and beautiful initiative being held across the country as part of Seva Pakhwada, which will continue till October 2, in commemoration of the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Ayemi highlighted that while the BJP has been observing Seva Pakhwada for many years through activities such as cleanliness drives, tree plantation, health camps, blood donation camps, this year the Seva Pakhwada carries added meaning as it coincides with Modi’s 75th birthday, and for the first time, a marathon has been introduced as part of the programme.

He further stressed on the importance of the marathon’s theme, reminding everyone of the pressing need to eliminate the menace of drugs and narcotics from society.

The advisor urged the people to unite in spreading awareness across the state so that Nagas can come together and build a drug-free future.