SAMBA: The Pt. Prem Nath Dogra Government Degree College Samba, in collaboration with J&K Aids Control Society, Department of Health and Medical Education, today organised a District level Marathon as part of the Youth Fest, Red Ribbon Run Activity-2023.
The Marathon was flagged off by Deputy Commissioner, Abhishek Sharma in the presence of Special Invitee, SSP, Benam Tosh.
The College Principal, Dr. Twinkle Suri warmly welcomed the Deputy Commissioner, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. She congratulated the students for their enthusiastic participation and emphasized that the short run aimed to encourage a healthy lifestyle and physical activity among the youth. Dr. Suri acknowledged the unwavering support of the Police Department in ensuring the safety and security of the students during the event.
Speaking at the event, the DC expressed that the Red Run Marathon marked the commencement of month-long Independence Day celebrations under the AKAM initiative, ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh,’ which aims to honor freedom fighters and martyrs at all levels right from the Panchayat level. He highlighted the importance of self-improvement practices like yoga and sports in promoting the physical, social, ethical, and spiritual well-being of students. Mr. Sharma congratulated the college administration for organizing the Marathon, promoting positive lifestyle changes in the community. He distributed certificates of participation to the runners and praised the winners and organizers for their dedication to the noble cause.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all 05 Govt Degree Colleges of District Samba, including Vijaypur, Purmandal, Ramgarh, Samba, and Ghagwal.
A total of 100 participants, with 20 students from each college accompanied by Red Ribbon Club Convenors, ran a 2 Km marathon, starting from GDC Samba and concluding at Shah Balour, Mansar Road. District Youth Services and Sports Department jury members selected the top 25 runners to represent District Samba at the final UT level, Youth-Fest Red Run Marathon in Jammu, aimed at generating HIV/AIDS awareness among youth.
During the culmination of the Marathon, the jury members from the Department of Youth Services and Sports were honored with trophies by the Principal of the College, appreciating their expert services for the event.
The District Red Run Marathon showcased the spirit of unity, health, and awareness, leaving a positive impact on the community. Such initiatives highlight the significance of promoting physical activities and embracing a healthy lifestyle among the youth.