To foster community harmony and empower local youth, the 78 Battalion Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF), in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), successfully conducted the 10 Km Zubza Mini Marathon on 5th September under the national framework of the SPANDAN Khelo India Scheme.
The mega-event, themed “Sports for Peace and Development,” kicked off at the early hour of 06:30 AM from the 78 Bn CRPF Headquarters Main Gate in Sechu-Zubza, Kohima. The marathon witnessed an overwhelming response, drawing in over around 200 plus energetic young athletes, and citizens from across the Kohima district and others district across the state who ran shoulder-to-shoulder to promote fitness and voice a strong stance against drug abuse.
The event was officially flagged off by Commissioner, Nagaland, Gregory Thejawelie, IAS, alongside ADC, Kohima, Kevileto Nisa, Col. Joseph 17 AR and senior leadership of the CRPF and local village council elders.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest lauded the unique initiative, stating, “SPANDAN is not just about competing, it is about building a drug-free, progressive future. The grit displayed by the youth of Nagaland today proves that sports can seamlessly bridge communities and inspire national integration.” He added.
To ensure complete fairness and professional standards, the 10 Km highway circuit was strictly regulated by CRPF and State police route marshals. Runners were verified via a midway wrist-token system at the 5 Km U-turn marker, backed by dedicated medical booths and hydration stations stationed at every 2.5 Km interval.
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The mini marathon concluded with a grand prize distribution ceremony at the Battalion Parade Ground. Top podium finishers were awarded lucrative cash prizes of Rs. 10,000 with Gold Medal (First Place) to Shiangjiu T Khiamniungan, Rs. 6,000 with Silver Medal (Second Place) to Lhiti Lasuh and Rs. 4,000 with Bronze Medal (Third Place) to Takasanen Longkumer, along with official Merit Certificates, A special cash prize and participation of certificate to Suhluvolu Shijo for finishing first among the women.
Furthermore, every registered participant who crossed the finish line was presented with commemorative event T-shirts and refreshment kits to honor their sportsmanship.
Speaking at the close of the event, the Commandant of the 78 Bn CRPF extended deep gratitude to the local youth clubs, administration, and medical teams for their flawless support. He emphasized that this mini marathon serves as the grand opening for a week-long sports celebration, seamlessly paving the way for the upcoming SPANDAN Women’s Volleyball Tournament scheduled to run from September 7 to 10, 2026 at Dimapur. Above that the Commandant also announce a state level marathon to be conducted in next month with 60 prizes money with a 1st prize of Rs. 30000, 2nd prize of Rs.20000, 3rd prize of Rs 15000 each in every age category of 18yrs to 30yrs, 30yrs to below 45yrs and 45yrs and above for both men and women.
