Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated the winners of the Kashmir Marathon 2025 in Srinagar yesterday. The Full and Half Marathon events — spanning 42 km and 21 km respectively — were organized by the J&K Tourism Department and witnessed the participation of 1,100 runners from 27 States, Union Territories, and 11 foreign countries, making it a truly international sporting spectacle.
Addressing participants, marathon enthusiasts, and officials, the Lieutenant Governor commended the runners for their enthusiasm and spirit, describing it as a reflection of the marathon’s power to unite people and strengthen bonds of brotherhood through shared experiences.
“In just two years since its inception, the Kashmir Marathon has emerged as one of the country’s most prestigious running events. It has instilled pride, passion, and inspiration among people while nurturing a new generation of runners. I am confident that the Kashmir Marathon will continue to grow in stature, further enhance participation, and become a major economic driver for our tourism sector,” said the Lieutenant Governor.
Highlighting the significance of the event and the transformation witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019, the Lieutenant Governor told international participants that this positive change has been made possible under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
“Jammu and Kashmir is the crown jewel of India — a land of rich heritage, vibrant culture, and timeless ideals of humanism, communal harmony, and peace. It is truly a paradise on earth. I am deeply grateful to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for ushering in a historic transformation that has blended modernity with spirituality. Today, Jammu and Kashmir is moving forward with renewed confidence and determination,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor urged the people of J&K to seize the opportunities presented by the marathon to showcase the Union Territory’s vast potential on the global stage.
“Let us use this international event to promote our priceless cultural heritage, arts and crafts, and unique traditions. The Kashmir Marathon should become a powerful platform to highlight our progress and achievements while showcasing our handicraft, handloom, and tourism sectors to the world,” he added.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo; Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism) Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Shri Anshul Garg; DIG Central Kashmir Range Shri Rajiv Pandey; SSP Srinagar Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Shri Akshay Labroo, and other senior civil and police officials.
Renowned film actor Shri Suniel Shetty, along with prominent citizens, sportspersons, and a large number of youth, also graced the occasion.
