Srinagar, Oct 1 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said unity and collective resolve can help overcome even the most difficult challenges, as he addressed the closing ceremony of the Kashmir Marathon-Run for Unity here.
Sinha commended the enthusiasm of the youth who participated in the marathon and congratulated the runners, while lauding the J&K Police for organising the event, which he said has become a symbol of peace, unity and progress in the Union Territory.
The LG said the Run for Unity was not merely about speed or endurance but represented the strength of collective resolve and faith.
“When people walk together, no destination remains impossible and with determination and unity they can overcome difficult challenges,” he said.
Highlighting India’s diversity, Sinha said despite differences in language, traditions, food and attire, “the heartbeat of India remains one”.
“Unity is India’s strength, and when millions of steps move in one direction, even the highest mountains can be crossed,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said the participation of more than 6,000 runners in different categories conveyed a message that no goal was too distant for a united India.
He described the participation of youth as an investment in a shared future, saying the marathon was not only for the participants but also for the new generation of Jammu and Kashmir that dreams of a better India and is working towards making the Union Territory self-reliant and developed.
Sinha urged the youth to embrace discipline, fitness and brotherhood and stay away from drugs.
He recalled the success of the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign, which, he said, empowered thousands of young people through padyatras and civic action programmes.
The LG also called upon the youth to become brand ambassadors of the Fit India Movement and contribute to nation-building.
“The real victory of a marathon lies not just in reaching the finish line, but in holding each other’s hands and moving forward together,” he said.
Sinha said people may come from different paths and have different identities, but their destination and national identity remain common.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, ADGP Armed Police Nitish Kumar, ADGP CID M K Sinha, senior police and civil administration officials, sports personalities and a large number of youths.—(NVI)
