GANGTOK: The Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0 – Hill Marathon, themed “Run the Ridge – Connect the Peaks – Unite the Spirit,” took place on Sunday at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok. Organised by Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat in collaboration with the Eastern Command and Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army, the event paid heartfelt tribute to the courage and sacrifice of India’s Armed Forces while promoting fitness and solidarity among people from all walks of life.
In the backdrop of the “Great Himalayan Connect,” the Soldierathon symbolised not only the physical challenge of running through Sikkim’s mountainous terrain but also the emotional, cultural, and ecological bonds that unite Himalayan communities and beyond.This year’s edition held special significance as it coincided with the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Sikkim’s Statehood, marking fifty glorious years of the State’s journey of progress and harmony within the Indian Union.
The event was flagged off by the Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, who commended the spirit of the participants and lauded the initiative as a meaningful tribute to the nation’s soldiers. The Governor of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, graced the closing ceremony and presided over the prize distribution, felicitating the winners and commending all participants for their enthusiasm and contribution to promoting fitness and patriotism.
The event was also attended by Additional Director, Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sikkim, Mr R. B. Biswakarma, Superintendent of Police, Gangtok, Mr Mahendra Subba, Additional District Collector, Gangtok, Mr Tshering Norgyal Theeng, Arjuna Awardee Mr Jas Lal Pradhan, and several senior officials of the Indian Army and the State Government, whose presence added to the significance of the occasion.
The race commenced from Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, following a scenic and challenging route that passed through Zero Point and Tashi View Point before looping back to the stadium. More than 2,500 runners from over 130 cities across 27 states took part, making it one of the largest citizen–Army connect events in the region.
In a commemorative message, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command, Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, lauded the initiative, stating that every stride taken symbolises gratitude toward the soldiers who guard the nation’s borders. He noted that the Soldierathon represents more than a sporting event — it is a movement that strengthens the bond between the Indian Army and the citizens of the country.
Participants competed in three main categories — 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Run, and 5 km Fun Run — each designed to test endurance while showcasing Sikkim’s natural beauty.
In the 21 km Open Category (Male), the winners were Mr Mukesh Singh Bohara, Mr Bhanu Pratap Singh, and Mr Santosh Kumar. In the Female category, Ms Anjuli Subba secured first place, followed by Ms Priya Tamang and Ms Binita Kami.
In the 10 km Open Category (Male), Mr Vivek Phathak emerged first, closely followed by Mr Imran Ansari and Mr Prince Raj Mishra.In the Female category, Ms Chandra Kala Sharma clinched the top spot, followed by Ms Tejaswani Lambkane and Ms Riya Tamang.
The 5 km category featured special recognitions, with Mr Manish Pradhan being the oldest runner and Master Kessang Bhutia the youngest in the male group, while Ms Mridula Agarwal was the oldest and Ms Tsheyangla Bhutia the youngest in the female group.
Special awards were also presented to Mr Duki Sham Pahari (Oldest Runner, 21 km), Mr Rajendra Singh (Youngest Runner, 21 km), Ms Kaushalya Pradhan (Oldest Female, 21 km), and Ms Nitisha Verma (Youngest Female, 21 km).
As part of the Great Himalayan Connect, participating Army battalions were honoured with commemorative souvenirs in appreciation of their commitment and contribution.The event also recognised UNICEF Child Goodwill Ambassador Master Afik Khan from Darjeeling, who has completed 24 marathon runs to date. In a gesture of inclusivity, three specially-abled runners were also felicitated for completing the course, showcasing the diversity and unity that define the Soldierathon.
All finishers received medals, certificates, and mementoes as recognition of their participation and effort.
The closing ceremony at Paljor Stadium featured vibrant cultural performances by Indian Army personnel, reflecting India’s unity in diversity.
The Sikkim Soldierathon is part of the national fitness initiative Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat, conceptualised by Major Surendra Poonia, VSM, with the vision of fostering a Fit India and paying homage to the selfless service of soldiers across the nation. The Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0 stands as a powerful symbol of gratitude, unity, and resilience — celebrating the synergy between citizens and soldiers, and the indomitable spirit of India. Held as part of the 50 Years of Sikkim’s Statehood Celebrations, the event inspired participants and spectators alike to carry forward the collective call — “Jai Hind, Jai Bharat, Fit Bharat.”
- IPR Report
