Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said the Kashmir Marathon will be a “major economic catalyst” for the Union Territory’s tourism sector.
The remark came as Sinha felicitated the winners of this year’s marathon — the second edition of the international event launched last year.
The full and half marathons — of 42 kilometres and 21 kilometres, respectively — were organised by the Jammu and Kashmir tourism department on Sunday, an official spokesperson said.
According to the spokesperson, 1,100 runners from 27 states and Union Territories, and 11 countries participated.
The LG said the runners’ spirit is a testament to the marathon’s ability “to unite them and strengthen the brotherhood” through shared experiences.
“Within two years of its launch, Kashmir Marathon has become one of the most prestigious running tournaments in the country. It has infused a sense of pride and passion among people and is inspiring a new generation of runners,” Sinha said.
He expressed confidence that the marathon will further boost interest, and it will be a major economic catalyst for our tourism sector.
Sinha appealed to people to avail the opportunities the marathon would offer to showcase the UT’s potential to the world.
“Let us use this international event to showcase our priceless cultural heritage, and showcasing the change and our achievements,” the LG said, adding that the handicraft, handloom, and tourism sectors can find a global stage through the event.
Emphasising the importance of the Kashmir Marathon and “significant transformation achieved by J&K UT since 2019”, the LG told the International participants that “positive change has been made possible under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi”.
“Jammu & Kashmir is a crown jewel of India with rich heritage and vibrant culture. It is a paradise on earth known for its natural beauty and ageless ideals of humanism, communal harmony and peace. I am grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-ji for the historical transformation in this land to build a Jammu & Kashmir which harmonizes modernity and spirituality, and today it is moving forward with unwavering passion and resolution,” the LG said.
