JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a review meeting to discuss the preparations for the Jammu Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon 2025, scheduled to be held later this year.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Satosh D. Vaidya, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, Director Tourism Jammu, representatives from BISAG-N, marathon experts, and other concerned officials, both in person and virtually.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appreciated the initiative, emphasizing that the marathon should receive widespread publicity to attract top athletes from across the country.
The chief minister highlighted the significance of such events in boosting tourism in Jammu & Kashmir and positioning the region as a prime destination for sports and adventure tourism. “The success of this marathon will not only promote fitness and sports culture but will also bring Jammu into the spotlight as a key tourist destination. Ensure that all necessary preparations are in place and give the event the prominence it deserves,” the Chief Minister directed the officials.
At the outset, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal presented a detailed overview of the planned events.
She briefed the meeting on the proposed routes, event schedules, and logistical arrangements for the marathon.
The Chief Minister instructed the officials to ensure that the event dates do not clash with other major marathons across the country, allowing maximum participation from national and international athletes.
The Jammu Half Marathon 2025 will feature: 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Fitness Gauge Run and 5 km Fun Run. Discussions were also held on the route planning, prize structure, logo, flag-off timings, T shirts, branding, sponsorships, and digital outreach.
The meeting emphasized collaboration with key stakeholders, including the trade and travel industry, hotel and hospitality sector, corporate sponsors, government departments, and business establishments to enhance the event’s scale and impact.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the Jammu Ultra Marathon, drawing inspiration from prestigious ultra-marathons like the Khardung La Challenge and Bangalore Ultra Marathon. The discussion covered key aspects such as the route, prize structure, registration process, branding, and promotional activities.
The inclusion of an adventure race in Kashmir valley was also deliberated upon.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure meticulous planning and execution to make the Jammu Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon 2025 a landmark event, promoting Jammu as one of the premier sports tourism centre.